Set in Sicily around the start of World War II, this is in essence the coming-of-age tale of a young boy. He is infatuated with the Malèna of the title -- a young woman married to a soldier. When word comes that the soldier has been killed, the town begins to speculate on who she will wed next, as she is a really hot babe. She begins entertaining men, causing the rumours to fly. When she loses her house due to lack of funds, she is forced into the oldest profession. The story is told through the eyes of the young boy, who does all he can to safeguard her reputation out of love for her.
91 minutes, No persons under 13 (Language)
Drama, Romance, Sex
Ian Douglas: Fairly typical coming-of-age tale, perhaps with too much emphasis on masturbation. It does a good job of exposing the hypocrisy and double standards prevalent in much of society, but somehow the storyline fails to grip.
