Misunderstood

One of the biggest blind spots in the parenting toolbox is our inability to judge the true depth of our children’s emotions.  As adults, we think that only grown-up problems matter, when in fact the stakes are just a high for our kids.  Few films capture this flawed logic better than Luigi Comencini’s Misunderstood (1966), a melancholy coming-of-age story that digs deep into familial bonds that keep us together…and, just as often, tear us apart.

After the death of his estranged wife, John Duncombe is at a loss how to break the news to his two sons. Andrea, the eldest seems to take things in stride, carrying the burden for his younger brother Miles.  But while their father keeps busy with work, the children become more and more desperate for his attention, particularly Andrea who finds himself labeled a “troublemaker” despite every effort to impress.  Instead, it’s Miles, with no memory of his absent mother, who becomes the focus of the family, blissfully ignorant of the tragedies of the past…and hints of those to come.

 

Comencini’s career was defined by his ability to direct children and Misunderstood provides a perfect example of his skills.  The young actors cast as Andrea and Miles are years apart in age, but their performances are a perfect match, capturing that love/hate relationship shared by siblings of either gender.  Based on an original novel, Comencini’s script avoids any unnecessary exposition, drifting in and out of conversations, capturing grief in unexpected moments with painful intensity.  

 

Yet, Misunderstood is a film that celebrates the resiliency of children, their ability to adapt and grow where we, as adults, remain emotionally dormant.  It’s a film miraculously connected to the freedom of youth and all the Tom Sawyer adventures that implies.  Comencini makes it clear we’re headed towards a life-altering moment for the Duncombe family, but disguises it with cinematic sleight of hand.  Misunderstood is certainly a tear-jerker, but one that honestly earns each salty drop.

 

The Radiance 3000-copy limited edition comes from a new 2024 2K restoration and includes interviews with co-screenwriter Piero De Barnardi and Cristina Comencini (the director’s daughter) plus legendary critic Michel Ciment.  There’s also a visual essay, trailer and collector’s booklet that focuses on the enduring power of the coming-of-age film.  Yet another flawless addition to the Radiance library.