Writer/director Francesca Coppola creates meek beauty in the middle of domestic life and everyday landscapes. I Fenicotteri (Flamingos) is one of those films that thrives in silence, subtle storytelling, and visually-dazzling cinematography.
The 15-minute Italian short opens in a normal household scene: Marianna (the mother) cleans the house, Paolo (the artist father) stays late in bed, and Alice (the daughter) awaits for her father to take her to a walk. As the father and daughter visits a nearby park, they share a sentimental moment, without the child knowing that everything’s been rocky between her parents.
The story utilized the center image, flamingos, to weave out the father’s deepest sentiments. Through subtle hints of longing and emptiness, the film seamlessly translates the characters emotion onto the screen.
What’s impressive of the short is how it successfully embodies the concept of “show don’t tell”. Through this technique, the audience is treated in moments that fit perfectly with the narrative and emotion.
I Fenicotteri (Flamingos) is a peaceful and dramatic representation of how people fade away and relationships deteriorate through the eyes of a child.
Related Links:
Francesca Coppola’s Official Website
Francesca Coppola on Vimeo