As we inch closer to the end of 2020, we’re still in need of some escapism. And if, like us, you’ve binge-watched just about every cooking travel show or foreign film known to man, then it’s time to add something new to your must-watch list.
Thankfully, Netflix’s The Life Ahead is here to keep our wanderlust alive.
Set in Italy, the Italian-language film stars Sophia Loren—in her first acting role in a decade—as an elderly woman who’s been asked to care of Momo, a Senegalese-Italian orphan in need of some guidance.
Directed by her son, Edoardo Ponti, The Life Ahead is a tear-jerking ode to the importance of motherhood in all its forms, and shows the incredible bond two people can form over shared traumatic experiences.
Intrigued? Keep reading for everything you need to know about the film, from the plot to the cast and where you can stream it in Australia.
What Is The Plot Of The Life Ahead?
Adapted from the French novel The Life Before Us by Romain Gary and set in the seaside city of Bari, The Life Ahead follows Madame Rosa, an elderly woman who takes in a 12-year-old Senegalese-Italian orphan named Momo who has been fending for himself.
After attempting to steal Madame Rosa’s bag, he is taken to her home by his guardian, Dr. Coen, to return her belongings. However, Dr. Coen asks Rosa to take Momo in, as he is too elderly to care for him properly, she reluctantly does so in order to provide him with a female influence to guide him on the right path.
The story follows the pair as they form a close bond, with Madame Rosa revealing that she’s both a Holocaust survivor and a former sex worker, who now spends what’s left of her life taking care of the children of other sex workers.
While their relationship is strained at first, a beautiful friendship slowly forms between them, proving how motherly love can present itself in all shapes and sizes.
But don’t take our word for it, check out the trailer below to see for yourself.
WATCH BELOW: The Life Ahead Trailer
Who Is Cast In The Life Ahead?
As we already know, The Life Ahead stars the legendary Sophia Loren (La Ciociara) as Madame Rosa. However, she is also joined by newcomer Ibrahima Gueye, who plays Momo, the child that comes into her care.
Joining Loren and Gueye are an equally as excellent supporting cast, featuring Renato Carpentieri (Holding Hands) as Dr. Coen and Abril Zamora (Elite) as her neighbour, Lola.
Where To Watch The Life Ahead In Australia
Keen to give it a shot? You can catch The Life Ahead on Netflix in Australia now.
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