Roseanna's Grave (1997)

Roseanna's Grave Poster

Roseanna is dying of a heart condition, and all she wants is to be buried next to her daughter, in a cemetery that is getting full fast. The cemetery can't expand because Capestro, the man who owns the land next to the cemetery, won't sell. While Marcello is doing good deeds to make sure no one dies, Roseanna thinks of Marcello's future.

Overview
"Roseanna's Grave" (likewise called "For Roseanna") is a romantic dramedy film directed by Paul Weiland and starring Jean Reno, Mercedes Ruehl, and Polly Walker. Released in 1997, the film is embeded in Travento, a little village in Italy. The plot focuses on Marcello, played by Jean Reno, a café owner who goes to extreme lengths to prevent anyone else from passing away in his town. The reason behind this uncommon quest is his ailing spouse Roseanna, played by Mercedes Ruehl, who wants to be buried in the town's nearly full local cemetery.

Plot and Characters
Marcello is committed to his other half, who is suffering from a heart disease with a bleak diagnosis. Roseanna imagine being buried beside their child in the local graveyard, which has only 3 plots left, putting Marcello under enormous pressure. On the other hand, Cecilia, played by Polly Walker, enjoys Marcello privately and helps him in his quest. She needs to reconcile her love for Marcello with her desire to see him delighted with Roseanna.

Marcello's dedicated love for Roseanna pushes him to avoid any deaths in the village. He keeps a medical professional on standby to tend to the town's senior and ill, avoids a potentially lethal fight, and even prevents any high-risk activities that may result in fatal mishaps. Meanwhile, a complete stranger who arrives in the town has ominous intents that threaten Marcello's strategies, pushing his efforts to a tense climax.

Themes
The film's central theme is the depth of Marcello's love for his wife, showcasing how he's prepared to sacrifice anything to guarantee her final desire is satisfied. The story also discuss the styles of loss, friendship, neighborhood uniformity, and unrequited love, represented through Cecilia's character and her unmentioned sensations for Marcello.

Tone and Reception
"Roseanna's Grave" presents a heartfelt tale that drives home the point that like is generous and understands no bounds. The craftsmanship of Paul Weiland in managing this sensitive subject matter, together with the performances of Jean Reno and Mercedes Ruehl, produces an emotional cinematic experience. The film is both awful and amusing, striking a careful balance in between hearty laughs and tear-jerking moments to mesmerize the audience.

Despite its light-hearted tone, "Roseanna's Grave" highlights the significance of commitment, the value of life, and the effect of death on enjoyed ones. It got combined evaluations from critics, with praise for its unique premise and entertainers while dealing with criticism for its sometimes caricatured humor. However, with its captivating Italian landscape and powerful performances, the film leaves an enduring impression on the audience.

Conclusion
"Roseanna's Grave" is an emotional, wholehearted tale that checks out love, sacrifice, and death in a distinct, somewhat whimsical setting. Its strong storytelling, stressed with humor and poignant minutes, combined with memorable performances by the main cast, makes it a touching narrative of a remarkable romance.

Top Cast

  • Jean Reno (small)
    Jean Reno
    Marcello
  • Mercedes Ruehl (small)
    Mercedes Ruehl
    Roseanna
  • Polly Walker (small)
    Polly Walker
    Cecilia
  • Mark Frankel
    Antonio
  • Trevor Peacock (small)
    Trevor Peacock
    Fredo Iaccoponi
  • Fay Ripley (small)
    Fay Ripley
    Francesca
  • Giuseppe Cederna (small)
    Giuseppe Cederna
    Pater Bramilla
  • Roberto Della Casa (small)
    Roberto Della Casa
    Bruno Rossi
  • Luigi Diberti (small)
    Luigi Diberti
    Capestro
  • Renato Scarpa (small)
    Renato Scarpa
    Doctor Sergio Benvenuto
  • Romano Ghini
    Umberto