Netflix, We Need to Talk About Your Obsession with Borderline Incest Plots
Hey Netflix, we need to talk about your deal with borderline incest-obsessed plots. But first, can you please improve the summaries of your movies and series? I almost didn’t watch this film and would have regretted it! Created in Italy, this film has a lot of faults, yet I found myself loving the potential it had. While I’m in the minority here, as it only got a 3.5 rating on Google reviews, I still believe it’s worth discussing. Here’s what I want to say: despite its many flaws, this film captured something special for me.
While I’ve already criticized Netflix, I want to clarify that this film doesn’t involve anything incestuous, as the characters were raised in an orphanage—though it remains peculiar. Despite my critique, I must admit my appreciation for this film. As you’ll discover, I’m drawn to certain films despite their flaws, finding elements to connect with. With this film, I can’t say if it is the dark, thrilling cinematics that got me, or if it was the tormented boy that tickled my fancy. Then again, it could be the intense sensual scenes. Yes people, sex sells—go figure.
The Plot: Rigel and Nica’s Story
Let’s jump into the plot. Rigel and Nica were raised in an orphanage. Rigel was the headmaster’s favorite and received special treatment, while the other children were treated terribly, with Nica receiving some of the worst treatment. When Nica first arrives at the orphanage, the headmistress has Rigel take all her possessions, stating that nothing was communal property and no one could have personal effects.
As they grow up, neither of them gets adopted until they are in their teens. When a couple considers adopting Nica, they hear Rigel playing the piano and it reminds them of their deceased son. The couple decides to go through a trial run with both Nica and Rigel. Up until this point, Rigel had refused to be adopted, but this time, because of Nica, he agrees.
Throughout the movie, Rigel starts showing his interest in Nica and even beats up a guy who is interested in her. They engage in some questionable actions while they are in a trial period to see if they will become permanent siblings. Throughout these scenes, Nica learns why Rigel was nasty to her when they were in the orphanage. Meanwhile, Rigel learns that he can be loved.
The Conflict
The complex relationship between Rigel and Nica, who are placed in a trial period to become siblings despite their growing romantic feelings for each other, forms the central conflict of the film. This dilemma is further complicated by Rigel’s medical condition, adding another layer of complexity to their relationship. Furthermore, Nica’s desperate need for a family after the tragic loss of her parents in an accident heightens the emotional stakes and underscores the challenges they face in finding acceptance and belonging.
So, I probably should have included a spoiler alert, but I didn’t feel like it. Honestly, even a spoiler would help you comprehend this movie.
As the story unfolds, these conflicts intersect and intensify, driving the characters to confront their deepest fears and desires. The resolution of these conflicts ultimately shapes the trajectory of their relationship and the outcome of their journey towards self-discovery and acceptance.
My Final Thoughts:
Despite my love for the movie, I can’t overlook its flaws. My biggest issue lies in the pacing—it starts off as a slow burn, only to rush through the ending.While I appreciated the resolution of key plot points, such as Nica’s pursuit of justice for her abuse in the orphanage and the identification and resolution of Rigel’s medical condition, I found these moments lacking the depth and development they deserved.
The final scene, depicting Nica’s adoption and Rigel and Nica with their daughter, was heartwarming but felt somewhat abrupt. I yearned for more substance—more dialogue, more scenes—to fully explore the complexities of the characters’ journeys. Additionally, certain subplots were introduced but left unresolved, leaving me questioning their inclusion in the first place.
In conclusion, while I enjoyed the film, I couldn’t shake the feeling that it missed the mark in terms of fully realizing its potential. With a more balanced pacing and greater attention to detail, it could have been a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.
3/5 Stars
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