Nearly all of the men in this film are commitment-phobes, and before women across the land begin to tut and roll their eyes, there are so many scenes that will ring true not just to the male viewer but with virtually every viewer over the age of 25 it can't be dismissed on this basis.

If the script had not been dealt with in such an observant and truthful way there would certainly be a case for negative stereotyping.

But there isn't, and as a result it manages to appear so effortless and light-hearted whilst dealing with the weighty and significant complexities of modern relationships.

We are introduced to Carlo (Stefano Accorsi) and Giulia (Giovanna Mezzogiorno) the central couple who we can see within the first few scenes are emotional parallels of each other.

Carlo is immature and irresponsible and Giulia is calm and assured about what she wants from life.

All around them their peers are getting married, having babies, buying homes and Giulia discovers that she too is pregnant.

They sidestep issues of commitment by refusing to get married, as Carlo is constantly reminded by his already married friends that this would mean the end of his youth, freedom, happiness and everything good in life.

All these men can think about is escape. They plan to buy a beat up old van and go travelling in search of an adventure. As long as they can avoid becoming an adult and assuming responsibility for the direction of their lives and relationships.

It's evident that Giulia loves Carlo (despite the audience at times willing her not to), but she makes it clear to him that she will not abide infidelity.

And sure enough temptations present themselves in the form of Francesca (Martina Stella) a beautiful, innocent, fresh-faced 18 year old who becomes the object of Carlo's desire.

What follows is a sterling performance by Giovanna Mezzogiorno as she moves so realistically from calm to rage when she finds out the truth. The couple argue explosively and the furious passion of the Italian language leaps from the screen.

The film cuts back and forth to other storylines which serve as momentary breathers before returning to the primary couple.

Stefania Sandrelli, who plays Giulia's mother Anna, is fantastically desperate as the older woman trying to escape her stale marriage in search of the elusive romance that will make her feel young one last time.

There are points when you find yourself questioning whether you actually feel anything other than contempt for a number of characters but the resolution is satisfying and honest.

A very Italian emotional roller-coaster of a film. The final few moments of the film will leave you grinning to yourself as you ponder the sweet irony of it all.

Vickie Juett.