Fortunata (Jasmine Trinca) is a young mother and self-employed hairdresser tenaciously pursuing her dream of opening her own salon and achieving economic independence in this drama set in contemporary Rome. Fortunata, whose name ironically means “Lucky,” is stuck in a toxic relationship with Franco (Edoardo Pesce), her abusive ex-husband. She is also mother to troubled eight-year-old Barbara (Nicole Centanni), whose behavioral problems have landed her in therapy with child psychologist Patrizio (Stefano Accorsi). Fortunata’s self-esteem is further tested by the draining and discouraging characters in her life, like her friend and future business partner, tattoo artist Chicano (Alessandro Borghi), who struggles with drug addiction while tending to his demented, elderly mother (Hannah Schygulla). Despite her problems, Fortunata works toward her goal. She has planned every detail and is ready for any obstacle, but she hasn’t considered the one thing that can turn all certainties upside down: love. For the first time, she finds someone who loves her for the woman she is. –
Franca Cavallaro
Co-presented by
Istituto Italiano Scuola and
Italian Society Berkeley.