The Ignorant Fairies 2002

Antonia, a dedicated doctor focused on AIDS treatment, and her husband Massimo seemingly lead an idyllic existence. However, this perfect life is abruptly disrupted when Massimo tragically dies, run over by a car, leaving Antonia engulfed in grief. This profound loss hinders her ability to work and complicates her relationship with her mother, who is also a long-time widow. During this tumultuous time, Antonia receives belongings from Massimo’s office, including a painting titled The Ignorant Fairy, which bears a heartfelt message on its reverse side. This revelation prompts her to investigate the identity of the gift-giver, someone entirely unknown to her.

As Antonia delves deeper, she uncovers a reality that shatters her previous understanding: Massimo was bisexual and had been secretly involved with a man named Michele. Initially in disbelief, Michele feigns ignorance but soon directs his anger towards Antonia, blaming her for the sacrifices he made for Massimo. In a quest for clarity about Massimo’s hidden life, Antonia chooses to meet with Michele again. This encounter sparks an unexpected friendship between them, allowing Antonia to connect with Michele’s vibrant circle of friends—a diverse group that includes gay individuals, a transgender woman, a Turkish refugee, the Turkish singer Emir, and a spirited Neapolitan woman, all residing in the attic of a public building in the charming neighborhood of Ostiense, Rome.

Motivated by a desire to assist Ernesto, a young friend of Michele’s living with HIV, Antonia finds herself regularly interacting with this colorful community. Her involvement not only fosters a sense of belonging but also facilitates her emotional growth, challenging her to break free from her previous, stifling routine. Throughout this journey, Antonia and Michele share memories of Massimo, uncovering the multitude of lies he crafted to maintain his dual existence.

Tensions rise when Antonia witnesses Michele flirting with two men at a party, a situation that culminates in a ménage à trois. This moment serves as a catalyst for Michele, who feels offended when Antonia gifts him a book by their shared favorite poet, Nazım Hikmet, which Massimo had feigned appreciation for to win Michele over.

Their strained relationship reaches a breaking point when Ernesto goes missing. Antonia, recalling where Ernesto met his lover, finds him and persuades him to prioritize his well-being. Following this emotional turmoil, Antonia and Michele share a passionate kiss, thrusting both into a state of confusion.

Things take another unexpected turn when Antonia discovers she is pregnant with Massimo’s child. Eager to share this life-changing news, she rushes to Michele’s home only to overhear him discussing his desire to distance himself from her. Heartbroken, Antonia chooses to withdraw from their burgeoning relationship. Although Emir offers her an adventure abroad, she ultimately decides to embark on her journey alone, concluding the film with her quiet, secretive departure.