Why are so many European films are about drop-dead gorgeous women who go mad? The weird (but good) Italian import Respiro is no exception--though Valeria Golino, a vibrant mother of three, doesn't seem mad so much as misunderstood. Her free-spirited ways and moody fits go against the mores of her small seaside village. For a while, hunky hubby Vincenzo Amato stands by his sexy, stormy wife but soon becomes convinced (thanks to friends and local gossips) that she should be sent away for medical treatment.
But loving son Francesco Casisa protects mom...by hiding her in a cave and faking her death. See, we said it was weird. Sensuous and sun-drenched, Respiro features a talented, bronze-skinned cast and lots of lovely visuals, taking full advantage of its stunningly beautiful Sicilian island setting. You may go mad with envy.