In this adaptation of Elvira Dones's 2007 novel, Italian director Laura Bispuri offers a fascinating look at an obscure custom in rural Albania that allows an unmarried woman to declare herself to be a man (known locally as a burrnesa) and enjoy all of the rights that are distinctive to men. There's only one catch: the newly minted “man” must take a vow of eternal virginity. Hana (Alba Rohrwacher) grew up in a small Albanian village where the prospect of a life in near-servitude to a husband has propelled her decision to become a burrnesa named Mark. She trades her women's clothing for men's garments and therefore gains wider rights, including property ownership and gun possession. But over time, Mark's life choice becomes emotionally imprisoning rather than liberating. Traveling to Italy to visit her long-estranged sister and family, Mark slowly transitions back to Hana, whose vow of eternal virginity is chipped away at by a newfound fascination with a handsome laborer at a local swimming pool. An offbeat drama driven by a strong central performance from Rohrwacher, this is recommended. (P. Hall)
Sworn Virgin
Strand, 88 min., in Albanian & Italian w/English subtitles, not rated, DVD: $27.99 Volume 31, Issue 5
Sworn Virgin
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