If I Want to Whistle, I Whistle 2011

Romanian youth Silviu, portrayed by George Piștereanu, is serving a four-year prison sentence when he receives an unexpected visit from his younger brother. In a heartfelt conversation, his brother reveals that their mother has returned, having found work in Italy, and plans to take him along. Silviu, wishing to reunite with her, walks to the fence—against prison rules—and is quickly confronted by a guard. Fortunately, the prison director shows leniency and allows him to vent his frustration without extending his sentence.

Determined to connect with his mother, Silviu uses a mobile phone belonging to another prisoner to call her, urging her to visit. When she arrives, he wrestles with his feelings, recalling the tumultuous past where he felt abandoned. With bitterness, he accuses her of abandoning her children for various lovers and blames her for being a prostitute. Silviu insists that he has no desire to join her in Italy.

During his time in prison, he meets Ana, a young social worker and psychology student played by Ada Condeescu. Their interactions are tumultuous; while he is drawn to her, he also threatens her life with a piece of broken glass, demanding his mother’s presence. The tension escalates as he threatens both Ana and himself, coercing her to vow that she will keep his brother from going to Italy.

In a shocking turn of events, Silviu employs his threats once more, overpowering guards and escaping with Ana for a brief coffee break at a café. After this escape, he returns alone, making the difficult choice to surrender to authorities, navigating a complex web of emotions that span love, betrayal, and the desire for freedom.