A Deep Dive into Memory and First Love: A Review of Duino
Duino Courtesy of New fest
Duino, directed by Juan Pablo Di Pace and Andrés Pepe Estrada, is an evocative tale of memory, love, and self-discovery. This debut feature blends nostalgia with an intimate portrayal of the complexities of first love, brilliantly set against the backdrop of the Italian town of Duino. I had the pleasure of viewing this film at New Fest 36 at the SVA Theater in New York, which added a unique resonance to the film’s powerful storytelling.
The film follows Matias, played by Di Pace, as he revisits his youth and attempts to complete an unfinished film inspired by his first love, Alexander, a friend from his boarding school days. Through flashbacks, Matias reconnects with the deeply buried emotions of his past, capturing the tension between love and loss.
The narrative structure of Duino is a beautiful intermingling of past and present, using meta-cinematic elements to connect Matias’ unfinished movie with his own journey of finding closure. The picturesque coastal town of Duino serves as both a literal and symbolic location, drawing parallels between Matias’ own longing and the scenic allure of a place long remembered.
The film’s visual aesthetics are rich and atmospheric, with a focus on capturing the intimate moments that define young love and friendship. Di Pace’s performance as Matias is sensitive and reflective, while August Wittgenstein’s portrayal of Alexander brings a haunting presence to the story. The use of flashbacks adds a dreamlike quality to the film, while the meta-narrative elements effectively blur the lines between reality and fiction, underscoring Matias’ struggle to find peace with his past.
Thematically, Duino offers a refreshing take on the coming-of-age genre, focusing on the LGBTQIA+ experience with a raw emotional core. The film explores the power of memory and the lasting impact of love unfulfilled. It strikes a delicate balance between melancholy and hope, offering an insightful look into the ways our pasts shape who we become. The story serves as a universal exploration of the complexities of first love—particularly one left undeclared—and the journey toward self-acceptance.
With its heartfelt performances, poetic storytelling, and a keen sense of visual beauty, Duino stands as a poignant reflection on love, longing, and the passage of time. It celebrates the profound influence of friendship and the courage it takes to revisit painful memories in search of closure and understanding.
TCG Score: 4/5 ☆☆☆☆
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