La grande quercia

In 1943, Vincenzio and Maria bring their children to a farm in Tuscany, where Vincenzio works as a physician in Rome. He secretly prints an anti-Fascist paper in the hospital basement, while his brother fights in the Resistance. Their father provides food to a local monastery, which shelters twelve fugitives. This family dynamic unfolds through the perspective of Paulo, the eldest child, who does not wear a Fascist Youth uniform at school.

The film captures the innocence of childhood against the backdrop of war. Paulo and his siblings enjoy playful moments with their grandfather, explore the fields, and witness both the mundane and extraordinary aspects of life during a challenging time. However, the narrative takes a darker turn as the war escalates, culminating in Italy's surrender and the subsequent German retaliation against the family. La grande quercia offers a unique lens on the resilience of family life during wartime, making it a significant piece for those interested in Italian cinema and historical dramas.