In depressing post-war London, Lottie Wilkins (Josie Lawrence) reads a newspaper ad for an Italian castle. Fellow Nightingale Women's Club member Rose Arbuthnot (Miranda Richardson) reads the same ad. Despite being relative strangers, Lottie is desperate to convince Rose to join her on vacation. Lottie suffers under her overbearing husband Mellersh (Alfred Molina). Rose has disinterested husband Frederick (Jim Broadbent). The women are joined by snooty widower Mrs. Fisher (Joan Plowright) and the enigmatic Lady Caroline Dester (Polly Walker).
These are compelling characters. Lottie and Rose's joy from simply deciding to go on the trip is heart-breaking. Once in Italy, the sunshine actually shone through the screen. One can feel the simple healthy energy. I wouldn't mind if the husbands never showed up there. It would be great if the women gain back more of their personal identity before they are swallowed up by their relationships. It is still nice to be rejuvenated by the countryside.
These are compelling characters. Lottie and Rose's joy from simply deciding to go on the trip is heart-breaking. Once in Italy, the sunshine actually shone through the screen. One can feel the simple healthy energy. I wouldn't mind if the husbands never showed up there. It would be great if the women gain back more of their personal identity before they are swallowed up by their relationships. It is still nice to be rejuvenated by the countryside.