Visual splendor reminiscent of Visconti films

This exquisite Italian film, evoking the golden age of Visconti cinema in the 1970s, arrives in Japan as the opening feature for the newly renovated Bunkamura Le Cinema on December 23rd.

While the classic love story is compelling, attention is also drawn to the changing Milanese cityscape throughout the seasons, the Art Deco mansion used as a residential museum, and the characters' fashion.


Notably, the protagonist Emma's wardrobe was produced by Jil Sander's Creative Director, Raf Simons. To embody the bourgeois yet modern Milanese heroine, shift dresses and clean shirts crafted by artisans were selected. This collection was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Costume Design this year. Fendi handled the costumes for the male characters. Silvia Venturini Fendi, the third generation of the Fendi family, is also credited as a co-producer, highlighting the film's impressive roster of talent.

A tragedy born from forbidden love

The story unfolds within the wealthy Recchi family in Milan, Italy. Emma, the matriarch and a Russian immigrant, strives to assimilate into the upper class by learning Italian and raising her two sons and a daughter. However, she cannot shake a sense of alienation and not belonging. The family's fate begins to shift when real power is transferred to Emma's husband, Tancredi, and their son, Edoardo, on the patriarch's birthday.

Her daughter comes out as gay, Edoardo faces the harsh realities of business and falls into despair. Emma finds herself falling for Antonio, her son's friend, who accepts her for who she is, unleashing her suppressed passions. A tragedy stemming from this forbidden love then befalls the Recchi family, setting them on a new path.

The lead role is played by the acclaimed British actress Tilda Swinton, known for her roles in major films such as "The Beach" and "The Chronicles of Narnia." She delivers a performance that is at times fragile, at times resolute, portraying the passionate and poignant nature of a woman who falls for a younger man. Swinton also served as a producer for the film.

"I Am Love" is a film that encapsulates the essence of Italy, from its story to its fashion. We highly recommend experiencing its exquisite cinematography, the mature love story, and the family drama.

"I Am Love"
Original Title│IO SONO L’AMORE
Director│Luca Guadagnino
Starring│Tilda Swinton, Flavio Parenti, Edoardo Gabbriellini
Runtime│120 minutes
Distributor│Twin
Opening December 23rd (Fri, Holiday) at Bunkamura Le Cinema, with subsequent nationwide release.