“Trifole”
Directed by Gabriele Fabro
Starring: Ydalie Turk, Umberto Orsini, Margherita Buy
Synopsis: In Italy’s Piedmont region, the rare white truffle hides deep in the forests around Alba. Igor, an aging truffle hunter, faces failing health and vanishing woodlands while struggling to keep pace with the modern truffle market. Into his quiet, tradition-bound world comes Dalia, his 28-year-old granddaughter from London, disconnected from her roots and searching for direction. Tasked with caring for him, their awkward reunion softens as she’s drawn into his passion for truffle hunting—and his world.
When an accounting oversight threatens Igor’s home, Dalia embarks on a quest to find a legendary “lightning-struck” truffle that could save everything. Guided by Igor’s notes and his faithful dog, Birba, she ventures into a magical forest, confronting rival hunters, unexpected danger, and her own awakening sense of purpose.
Review:
Ah yes! An Italian film! I don’t think we’ve seen many of these Italian films make it to US theaters so this is exciting.
The Italian countryside is it’s own character in this film. Absolutely gorgeous and eye popping. It makes me want to pack up and move back to one of my homelands.
The film opens with 28 year old Dalia coming to check up on her grandfather, Igor. Igor is played by Ydalie Turk and his performance is breathtaking. I hope the Oscars are watching..
The first two thirds of the film are whimsical, heartbreaking, full of truffles and quite frankly almost dominated by one of the cutest dogs in cinema ever. Later in the film, tragedy strikes when Dalia goes truffle hunting for Igor. As a viewer, I was shaken by this scene as it’s so subtle, but so impactful.
The last part of the movie felt a little disjointed from the rest but it’s also a little manic, so in a weird way I can respect it. I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what was going to transpire.
All in all, “Trifole” hits you with all of the the feels. Love. Sadness. Smiles. Dread. It’s absolutely worth the price of admission!
“Trifole” is now playing in select theaters! Locally it’s playing at Landmark at Annapolis Harbour Center!