Identification of a Woman (Italian: Identificazione di una donna) is a 1982 Italian drama film written, directed, and edited by Michelangelo Antonioni. The film stars Tomás Milián, Daniela Silverio, and Christine Boisson, exploring the intertwined themes of art, love, and identity through the story of a filmmaker searching for both a leading lady for his next film and a companion for his life. Filmed in Rome and Venice, it was awarded the 35th Anniversary Prize at the 1982 Cannes Film Festival.
Plot Overview
The narrative follows Niccolò (Tomás Milián), a recently divorced filmmaker grappling with both creative and personal uncertainties. He meets Mavi Luppis (Daniela Silverio), a mysterious woman from an aristocratic background, and their passionate but tumultuous relationship becomes a source of inspiration and turmoil. Strange warnings and a pervasive sense of danger disrupt Niccolò’s pursuit of Mavi, eventually leading to her enigmatic disappearance.
Niccolò’s quest for understanding and closure introduces him to Ida (Christine Boisson), whose warmth and honesty contrast with Mavi’s elusiveness. As Niccolò navigates these relationships, the story weaves elements of existential inquiry, societal critique, and artistic introspection, culminating in a bittersweet meditation on love, loss, and self-discovery.
Critical Reception
The film received mixed to positive reviews upon its release. Critics praised Antonioni’s trademark visual style and the atmospheric cinematography but were divided on its narrative cohesion.
•Vincent Canby, The New York Times: “A haunting exploration of human relationships and their fragility, Antonioni crafts a visual symphony, though the narrative at times feels disjointed. Identification of a Woman captivates more with its mood than its story.”
•Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times: “Antonioni delves into the complexities of desire and creativity with poetic restraint. However, viewers unfamiliar with his style may find the film’s pacing and ambiguity challenging.”
•Paolo D’Agostini, La Repubblica: “Un’opera magnetica e misteriosa che intreccia eros, solitudine e cinema stesso. Una gemma di riflessione artistica e personale.” (“A magnetic and mysterious work intertwining eros, solitude, and cinema itself. A gem of artistic and personal reflection.”)
Legacy
While not as universally celebrated as Antonioni’s earlier masterpieces like L’Avventura or Blow-Up, Identification of a Woman is often appreciated as a deeply personal work. Its meditative pacing and abstract storytelling remain quintessentially Antonioni, making it a compelling study for cinephiles drawn to introspective cinema.
