Rom

When in Rome (2024) is a Danish film that fails to live up to even modest expectations. The plot is so trivial and overdone that it feels like a movie we've all seen a thousand times before. There's nothing fresh or engaging about the story-it's the same old, tired romantic tropes stitched together into a dull narrative that drags on without offering anything new or thought-provoking.

The script is one of the weakest aspects, filled with cliché dialogue that feels forced and unnatural. The actors seem to struggle with the material, and it's clear that even the most talented among them are bogged down by a poorly written story. Bodil Jørgensen, typically a standout performer, does her best to salvage the situation, but not even her considerable talent can shine through the banality of the film. It's frustrating to see such a gifted actress given so little to work with, leaving her character feeling flat and unmemorable.

The rest of the cast delivers performances that range from mediocre to simply bad, making it hard to connect with the characters or care about their journeys. The film lacks any sense of urgency or emotional depth, and by the time it ends, you're left wondering why you wasted your time. When in Rome is forgettable at best, and at worst, a regrettable waste of nearly two hours. Save yourself the trouble and skip this one.

Gerda and Kristoffer want to celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary. To do so, they travel to Rome. When Gerda was young, she studied art there. Gerda and her husband goes to a restaurant in Rome. Johannes is there. He used to be Gerda´s art teacher and lover.

First of all, don´t confuse this movie with the "When in Rome" from 2010. They have some things in common, for example art, love, Rome and the title. But the main similarities ends somewhere there. Gerda explores her past. Her soul seems to be young, but she has lived a long life. She has accomplished many things. And quite many of her decisions seem to have been good.

Filming took place, not entirely unexpectedly, in Rome. I have read that this was Rolf Lassgård´s first visit to Rome. And he and the rest of the cast and crew seem to have enjoyed the experience. What did I miss here? I would have liked a flashback. But that is the only thing. The rest is great!