Mid-August Lunch

Gianni Di Gregorio, a middle-aged man living in Rome, faces financial difficulties, particularly concerning communal charges for his flat. He is unemployed and spends his days alternating between his apartment and a local wine bar, creating a sense of isolation amidst his struggles.

At the center of Gianni's life is his 93-year-old mother, Marina, who has demanding and capricious needs. As an only child, Gianni feels the weight of responsibility, especially during the busy summer holiday of Ferragosto, where he must ensure her comfort and care.

The day before Ferragosto, Gianni's landlord, Alfonso, confronts him about the mounting debts he owes. Feeling cornered, Gianni devises a plan to propose an unusual deal that could alleviate his financial burden for the holiday.

Gianni strikes a deal with Alfonso, suggesting that in exchange for forgiving his debts, he will take care of his elderly mother, Marina, overnight and during Ferragosto. Alfonso agrees, thus setting the stage for an unexpected and chaotic turn of events.

Alfonso further presses Gianni to take care of his aunt Maria, who suffers from memory problems but is known for her exquisite baked pasta. Gianni hesitates but ultimately agrees after Alfonso entices him with the prospect of monetary compensation.

Just as Gianni thinks he has settled his plans, his friend Marcello, a local doctor, imposes another challenge. Since his usual nurse is away for the holiday, Marcello needs Gianni to care for his own mother, Grazia, adding another layer of complexity to Gianni's already overwhelming situation.

With three elderly women to care for, Gianni finds himself navigating through their differing personalities and unique needs. The experience becomes a test of patience and resilience as he juggles responsibilities in an increasingly chaotic environment.

As Ferragosto approaches, Gianni struggles to prepare the household for the holiday festivities. He faces numerous challenges in coordinating the needs and expectations of the women while trying to maintain some semblance of order in their home.

Despite the chaos, the holiday lunch becomes a surprisingly joyful affair. The women gather around the table, sharing laughter and warmth, turning what could have been a stressful day into a memorable and heartwarming celebration.

As the holiday ends and the women prepare to leave, they express their appreciation for Gianni's care. In a heartwarming gesture, they offer him a significant sum of money to stay with them, marking a turnaround in his fortunes and providing him unexpected relief.