This film, which starts with lyrical music and three siblings running freely in a garden, is about the life of Giacomo Leopardi, one of Italy’s most iconic poets of the 19th century, the Romantic era. The film’s first half, wherein the poet is educated by his strict father, is composed of picturesque shots that bring the era vividly to life. Its lighting and colors, which express the atmosphere of the 19th century, are touching, bordering on the sublime. Following the poet’s journey up to Naples, we are brought closer to his world of poetry, where his physical weakness forced him to think of death when loving someone. Elio Germano is amazing in his interpretation of the role of Leopardi. In particular, the last scene?a poem recitation?leaves a lasting impression. The film was shot in the library spaces where Leopardi actually worked on his poems. (RHEE Soue-won)