Movie Review: Trifole
One-liner: Solid performances and lush visuals compel this authentic, charming and modern day fairy tale.
In the charming coming-of-age adventure drama Trifole, the tranquil beauty of rural Piedmont, Italy, provides a poignant backdrop for a story about connection, memory, and the pursuit of dreams. The film centers on aging truffle hunter, Igor, grappling with dementia, whose life is brightened and eased by the arrival of his supportive granddaughter, Dalia. Seeking purpose away from her London troubles, Dalia finds herself immersed in the rustic rhythm of the countryside, becoming her grandfather’s dedicated caretaker.
Director Gabriele Fabbro strikes a delicate balance between optimistic vibrancy and a melancholic undertow, guiding viewers from moments of pure joy to difficult home truths. Based on a screenplay by Gabriele Fabbro and Ydalie Turk, the evolving relationship between Igor and Dalia forms the emotional core. She nurtures his spirit, never snuffing out his enduring dream of finding the legendary “big prize” truffle – a relic from a bygone era of abundance and the bounty of Jupiter. Dalia’s quest, undertaken with his loyal truffle-sniffer dog, Birba, becomes a shared mission, a desperate hope to save Igor’s old home.
With white truffles commanding extraordinary prices, this elusive find represents more than just financial security; it’s a symbol of dignity and legacy for the old man in his twilight years. Yet, Trifole truly blossoms as Dalia’s journey of self-discovery. Her new role as her grandfather’s “eyes, ears, and hands” aligns her purpose with his, taking her into the magical woodlands in search of that elusive treasure. The film subtly weaves in a low-key fantasy element, lending a “Lord of the Rings” quality to the pursuit, with the truffle becoming a “precious” object in a compelling allegory for human desire.
“Asleep, but dreaming.”
Beautifully photographed and rich in its storytelling, Trifole features compelling performances, notably Ydalie Turk as the conflicted Dalia and the soulful Umberto Orsini as the grandfather. As the hunt intensifies after a lightning storm, the narrative shifts from mystery and wonder to a surreal, fairytale-like reality, enhancing the film’s unique charm.
While the tone occasionally flirts with comedy before returning to its dramatic grounding, Trifole is an enticing and well-crafted viewing experience. It’s a niche tale, but its quality ingredients shine through, offering a bittersweet chronicle of chasing one’s dreams and finding greater purpose. Despite minor narrative transitions that could have benefited from more finesse, this visually striking story of dream fulfillment stands tall, inviting audiences into thought-provoking spaces about memory, legacy, and the enduring power of hope.
The bottom line: Vivid
