Naples in Veils (2017) Movie Review: A Darkly Seductive Mystery Set in Naples
Naples in Veils (Italian: Napoli velata), directed by Ferzan Özpetek, is a visually stunning and enigmatic thriller released in 2017. This Italian film combines elements of mystery, romance, and crime drama, all wrapped in a sensual and dreamlike portrayal of Naples. Starring Giovanna Mezzogiorno and Alessandro Borghi, the film explores themes of passion, obsession, and the thin line between reality and illusion.
In this review, we’ll explore the intricate plot of Naples in Veils, highlight its unique visual and thematic elements, and guide you on where you can watch this hypnotic thriller online, particularly in the U.S.
Plot Summary: An Erotic Thriller Full of Secrets
The film follows Adriana (Giovanna Mezzogiorno), a middle-aged medical examiner living in Naples. At a family party, she meets a charismatic and attractive younger man, Andrea (Alessandro Borghi), and is immediately drawn to him. After a night of passionate lovemaking, Adriana wakes up to find Andrea has mysteriously vanished.
Soon after, a murder victim arrives at Adriana’s morgue, and she is horrified to discover that it is Andrea’s body. Adriana becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind his death, but her search plunges her into a labyrinth of secrets, hidden identities, and visions that blur the line between reality and fantasy.
As the story unfolds, Adriana’s life becomes intertwined with the ancient and mystical city of Naples, where the boundaries between the past and present, the living and the dead, seem to dissolve. The film’s narrative is full of twists and turns, with each revelation leading Adriana deeper into a world of deception, betrayal, and supernatural mystery.
Performances: A Mesmerizing Lead
Giovanna Mezzogiorno delivers a captivating performance as Adriana, a woman caught between passion and paranoia. Her portrayal of a complex character, battling her inner turmoil while attempting to solve a murder, is both raw and riveting. Mezzogiorno masterfully conveys Adriana’s vulnerability and strength, making her an engrossing character to follow.
Alessandro Borghi as Andrea is magnetic in his role, providing an aura of mystery and seduction. Although his screen time is limited, his presence looms large over the entire film. The chemistry between Borghi and Mezzogiorno adds a charged tension to their scenes, making the romantic and erotic elements of the film feel authentic and intense.
Themes: A Haunting Exploration of Desire and Reality
Naples in Veils is a film deeply rooted in themes of sensuality, mysticism, and the dichotomy between reality and illusion. Ferzan Özpetek uses the city of Naples itself as a character, with its ancient ruins, winding streets, and haunting architecture serving as the perfect backdrop for the film’s surreal tone. The city’s history of art, religion, and the occult plays a pivotal role in the narrative, adding layers of cultural and psychological complexity.
Adriana’s journey is as much an exploration of her own psyche as it is a murder mystery. The film blurs the line between what is real and what is imagined, often leading the audience to question whether Adriana’s experiences are happening in reality or within her mind. This dreamlike quality gives the movie a hypnotic rhythm, drawing viewers deeper into its emotional and psychological landscape.
Cinematography and Visual Style: A Feast for the Eyes
The cinematography by Gian Filippo Corticelli is one of the most striking aspects of Naples in Veils. The film is visually stunning, filled with rich textures and colors that mirror the baroque opulence of Naples itself. The camera lingers on the city’s architecture, art, and landscapes, creating a vivid and immersive world.
The film’s use of lighting and shadows enhances its mysterious and eerie atmosphere, while close-ups of Adriana’s face convey the intensity of her emotions. The erotic scenes are handled with sensitivity and beauty, avoiding gratuity while still conveying deep sensuality.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Beauty and Ambiguity
Strengths:
- Stunning Visuals: The film’s cinematography and visual style are some of its strongest assets, creating a sensual and atmospheric portrayal of Naples.
- Complex Lead Character: Giovanna Mezzogiorno’s performance as Adriana anchors the film, providing emotional depth to a story filled with ambiguity.
- Intriguing Mysticism: The film’s exploration of Naples’ occult history adds an interesting layer to the murder mystery, making it feel unique compared to more conventional thrillers.
Weaknesses:
- Pacing Issues: The film’s deliberate pacing may feel slow for viewers expecting a fast-paced thriller. It takes time for the plot to unfold, which may test the patience of some.
- Ambiguity in Storytelling: The dreamlike, surreal narrative style can sometimes leave too much unanswered, and viewers looking for concrete resolutions may find the film’s ambiguity frustrating.
Where to Watch Naples in Veils Online: Streaming and Rental Services
If you’re interested in watching Naples in Veils, there are several ways to stream, rent, or purchase the film online in the U.S. Here’s a guide to where you can find this sensual and enigmatic thriller:
Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video – Naples in Veils is available for streaming on Amazon Prime, either with a rental or purchase option.
- Tubi – This free streaming service offers Naples in Veils with ads. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a free way to watch the movie without needing a subscription.
- Kanopy – Some U.S. libraries provide access to Naples in Veils via Kanopy, a service that offers free streaming for library cardholders.
Rental and Purchase Options:
- Google Play Movies & TV – The film is available for both rent and purchase through Google Play, with the option to watch in HD.
- Apple TV – You can rent or buy Naples in Veils on Apple TV, which offers a seamless viewing experience across Apple devices.
- Vudu – Vudu offers Naples in Veils for rent or purchase, with pricing that’s competitive with other platforms.
DVD/Blu-ray Purchase:
For collectors or those who prefer physical media, Naples in Veils is available on DVD and Blu-ray through online retailers like Amazon and eBay.
Final Thoughts: A Sensual and Mystifying Thriller
Naples in Veils is a captivating and visually arresting film that blends elements of erotic thriller, mystery, and psychological drama. With its slow-burn pacing, dreamlike storytelling, and stunning depiction of Naples, it’s a movie that rewards patience and careful attention. Giovanna Mezzogiorno’s performance is outstanding, anchoring a story filled with twists, illusions, and metaphysical questions.
If you enjoy films that challenge the boundaries between reality and fantasy, and appreciate the fusion of sensuality with mystery, Naples in Veils is a film worth watching.
