Seven Functions of Whim (Sette opera di misericordia)

A Cinecitta Luce release (in Italia) of the La Sarraz Pictures, Elefant Films production, in colaboration with Lezard Film, together with Rai Cinema. (Worldwide sales: Intramovies, Rome.) Created by Alessandro Borrelli. Co-producer, Serta Burlac. Directed, compiled by Gianluca P Serio, Massimiliano P Serio.With: Roberto Herlitzka, Olimpia Melinte, Ignazio Oliva, Stefano Cassetti, Cosmin Corniciuc. (Italian, Romanian dialogue)A desperate illegal immigrant along with a chilled older widower uncover the significance of social communication in twins Gianluca and Massimiliano P Serio's feature helming debut, "Seven Functions of Whim." A thoroughly crafted yet over-intellectualized drama whose preternatural importance functions just like a leaden shroud, the pic aims for any nuanced and unprejudiced portrait of two social outcasts, but gives not enough information to allow them to earn anything apart from knee-jerk sympathy. Outdoors scattered fest dates, "Seven Functions" is not likely to get much whim from local people either in of their home nations. Limited visual clues help anchor audiences dropped in to the story without background info. Romanian Luminita (Olimpia Melinte, one-note) sucks patients inside a hospital and survives on pilfered food. She sees frail yet prickly Antonio (Roberto Herlitzka) as simple prey, entering his home and taking advantage of it as being a brief haven for any kidnapped baby she intends to trade for work papers. Stockholm syndrome quickly evolves and also the lonely duo tentatively relaxes in quiet innocent companionship. Chapter divisions, marking the eponymous seven functions, provide the sole little bit of irony. Smooth, meditative lensing furthers the somber feel, touched with self-importance.Camera (color, widescreen), Piero Basso editor, Stefano Cravero music, Plus (Minus&Plus) production designer, Giorgio Barullo costume designer, Carola Fenocchio. Examined at Locarno Film Festival (competing), August. 8, 2011. Running time: 98 MIN. Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com