Genre: Drama

Language: Italian with English Subtitles

Director: Antonio Capuano

Cast: Valeria Golino, Andrea Renzi, Rosaria De Cicco & Marco Grieco

Released: 2005

Duration: 100 Minutes

Rating: M content may disturb

Distribution: Palace Films

'Mario’s war' is the poignant story of a rebellious boy who has been taken away from his abusive mother and placed in the temporary care of a young couple, Giulia (Valeria Golino, ‘Respiro’) and Sandro (Andrea Renzi), living in a well-to-do Naples home.

Nine-year-old Mario (Marco Grieco in a penetrating performance), removed from the neglectful management of his mother Nunzia (Rosaria De Cicco), finds himself surrounded by solicitous adults who are eager to indulge his every whim. A restless struggle ensues between an adult and a child who have to adapt to each other without the bond of a biological relationship.

Giulia is a special woman who gratefully and bravely embraces her new foster son. Not only does she have to grapple with every obstacle Mario throws at her, she has to cope with the doubts and hesitation of Sandro, the man she lives with and loves.

A touching and inspirational portrait of a woman taking on a difficult situation; whose spirit and determination win over the boy, her husband and ultimately you.

Valeria Golino, "one of Italy's best actresses" – Jay Weissberg, Variety, won Best Actress at the 2006 David Di Donatello Awards and Best Actress at the Italian Golden Globes; Marco Grieco won a Special Mention To A Young Actor at the Locarno International Film Festival 2006.