266. Ferrante Fever; movie review

FERRANTE FEVER
Cert 12
74 mins
BBFC advice: Contains infrequent strong language

First things,first -  if you are hoping that the true identity of bestselling author, Elena Ferrante, will be uncovered during this film, you will be disappointed.
Ferrante has cherished her (or his) anonymity for decades and those who have contributed to this tribute have apparently no interest in unveiling her.
However, a very cursory glance across the internet will satisfy those in need of such speculation.
Instead, Giacomo Durzi's documentary is an academic insight into the power of fine writing and is, therefore, one for fans of the novelist.
It wasn't aimed at the likes of me, who had not read a line of her work or even heard of her before seeing the film.
Apparently, Hillary Clinton is a devote of Ferrante and among those who have been overwhelmed by the honesty of her writing.
The way in which she explores characters is analysed by writers, devotees and her translator as is her perspective on Naples where her novels are set.
Ferrante has been particularly popular in the United States and the reasons for her success are also under the microscope.
All for which would be fascinating for the army of fans who have read her books or who are salivating for more.
I am not one so all that was left in this for me was the unravelling of the greatest mystery of modern-day literature.
Surely, someone somewhere knows the true identity of Elena Ferrante but they are not saying and even if they were, the makers of this film were not asking the question.

Reasons to watch: If you are a fan of the author
Reasons to avoid: Doesn't translate much to non-fans

Laughs: None
Jumps: None
Vomit: None
Nudity: Very briefly
Overall rating: 6.5/10

Did you know? Elena Ferrante wrote a column in The Guardian for a year from January 2018.

The final word. Producer, Alessandra Acciai: “We decided with Ferrante’s publisher not to delve into the issue of who Elena Ferrante is. It was very important for me to be in harmony with them, It means being on the same page with Elena Ferrante.”

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