A Whole Life Ahead

A Whole Life Ahead

2008 · 117 min · IT · 6.6 (288 votes)
Dir. Paolo Virzì · Starring Isabella Ragonese, Massimo Ghini, Valerio Mastandrea, Micaela Ramazzotti, Elio Germano, Sabrina Ferilli · Music Franco Piersanti
ComedyDrama

25-year-old philosophy major Marta faces the ugly truth for many young Italians—a total lack of career opportunities. While babysitting for single mother Sonia, she starts to work at the call center of a company selling junk to housewives, quickly rising through its ranks and experiencing first-hand the fanatical and exploitative competition culture pushed on employees. Around her revolve other people, like delusional supervisor Daniela, her boss Claudio, fragile coworker Lucio, and well-meaning but inconsistent union rep Giorgio.

VIBE

This film captures the soul-crushing grind of modern employment with sharp wit and a surprisingly warm heart. It's a relatable, often funny, look at fighting for dignity in a system designed to break you, fueled by sharp dialogue and a cast that feels lived-in.

cynicalfrustratedhopefulrelatablewittysteadydramedyworkplace satireslice-of-lifeworker's rightseconomic hardshipidentitysocial commentary
call centerunemploymentlabor organizersocial issuesdramedygraduate studentworkplace comedyworker's rightsromantic misunderstandingbullying in the workplace
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