The charismatic Gianni Di Gregorio stars in his directorial debut—an utterly charming tale of good food, feisty ladies and unlikely friendships during a very Roman holiday. Broke, and armed with only a glass of wine and a wry sense of humor, middle-aged Gianni resides with his 93-year-old mother in their ancient apartment. The condo debts are mounting, but if Gianni looks after the building manager’s mother during the Pranzo di Ferragosto (Italy’s biggest summer holiday, and the Feast of the Assumption), all will be forgiven. Then the manager also shows up with an auntie, and then a doctor friend appears with his mother in tow... Can Gianni keep four such lively mamas well fed and happy in these cramped quarters?
3 day rental • NR • 75 min. • Italian with subtitles
“MID-AUGUST LUNCH is a film of rare benevolence that treats its subjects with dignity and playfulness.”
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The Guardian
“Shot handheld and mostly confined to the apartment, the film is (despite some mild food tourism) a delightful feat.”
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Film Comment Magazine
“A simple and endlessly charming look at a weekend in the life of an uncomplicated middle-aged man living with his aging mama.”
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Toronto Star
“The semi-improvised performances and gently nostalgic tone makes this endearing and captivating.”
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Empire Magazine