The Best of Youth

The Best of Youth

Year: 2005

Runtime: 180 min

Language: Italian

Director: Marco Tullio Giordana

DramaRomance

Set against the backdrop of Italy in the 1960s and 1970s, this story follows two brothers, Nicola and Matteo, as they come of age amidst political and social upheaval. Nicola experiences a passionate but ultimately fractured romance with Giulia, whose strong beliefs complicate their relationship. Meanwhile, Matteo finds comfort and connection with Mirella, a photographer who becomes a librarian. Through decades of change, they grapple with questions of love, family, and personal identity, facing the challenges of marriage and middle age.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen The Best of Youth yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – The Best of Youth (2005)

Trace every key event in The Best of Youth (2005) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Brothers in Crisis

Matteo and Nicola Carati experience a pivotal moment in their lives as they try to rescue Giorgia from an abusive sanitarium. This heartbreaking attempt strains their familial bonds and sets them on divergent paths filled with emotional turmoil and complex challenges.

2

Matteo's Departure from Academia

After the traumatic events surrounding Giorgia, Matteo abandons his academic dreams, feeling lost and disconnected. He instead seeks fulfillment by helping mentally ill individuals navigate through the streets, attempting to make sense of his pain.

3

Nicola's Academic Ascendancy

In contrast to Matteo, Nicola pours himself into his studies, achieving success by passing an important exam. This accomplishment sets him on the path to become a psychiatrist, fueling his desire to make a positive impact on mental health issues.

4

Matteo Joins the Army

Overwhelmed by despair after Giorgia is taken back by authorities, Matteo seeks refuge in the army. This decision marks a significant attempt to escape his emotional struggles and grapple with his turbulent feelings in a new environment.

Army base
5

Nicola's New Life in Norway

Nicola moves to Norway to work as a lumberjack, where he embarks on a new chapter in life. There, he meets Giulia, a university student who becomes an integral part of his journey, eventually leading him to settle down in Turin.

Norway
6

Building a Family

In Turin, Nicola and Giulia start a family, welcoming their daughter named Sara. This new chapter in their lives offers a hope for stability and love, contrasting sharply with the tumultuous experiences of Matteo.

Turin
7

Matteo Returns to Rome

After completing his military service, Matteo transitions back to civilian life as a police officer in Rome. Though he tries to find solace in his new role, he is haunted by lingering sadness, anger, and regret that stem from past decisions.

Rome
8

Reunion with Giorgia

Nicola discovers that Giorgia is suffering in a hospital, enduring horrific conditions. Her silent suffering brings the brothers' past full circle, as the trauma inflicted upon her sends waves of grief and anger through his life.

Hospital
9

Giulia's Involvement with the Red Brigades

As Giulia becomes entangled in a hidden cell of the Red Brigades, her sudden disappearance leaves Nicola devastated. This twist sends his life spiraling as he struggles to comprehend her choices and their implications.

10

Matteo's Tragic Decision

On the cusp of a new year, Matteo's inner turmoil culminates in a heartbreaking decision to leap from his balcony. This tragic act mirrors the unresolved pain in his life, affecting his family profoundly and irrevocably.

New Year Rome
11

Family Fragmentation

Following Matteo's death, the family begins to disintegrate. Nicola's mother retreats into solitude, while Nicola is consumed by guilt, vowing to prevent similar tragedies from befalling his loved ones.

12

Giulia's Capture

Determined to protect Giulia from herself and others, Nicola orchestrates her capture, leading to 17 years of imprisonment. This drastic measure, although painful, is intended to shield his family from her destructive choices.

Prison
13

Revelation of Legacy

A photograph taken by Mirella uncovers a shocking truth: Matteo is the father of Andrea, her son. This revelation prompts Nicola to share the news with their mother, reigniting her lost sense of purpose as she bonds with Mirella and Andrea.

Stromboli
14

Sara's Engagement

As Giulia nears her release from prison, Sara, now pursuing her aspirations in art conservation, becomes engaged to Mimmo. This engagement signifies a new beginning for Sara, intertwining her past with her mother's complicated history.

15

Nicola's Search for Closure

After the passing of his mother, Nicola travels to Stromboli to seek closure and honor his family's legacy. During this journey, he finds a renewed connection with Mirella, hinting at the possibility of healing and romance amidst their tragic past.

Stromboli

Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 18:53

Unlock the Full Story of The Best of Youth

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Best of Youth in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Best of Youth is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Best of Youth Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Best of Youth, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Best of Youth Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Best of Youth

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape The Best of Youth. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Best of Youth

More About The Best of Youth

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Best of Youth: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About The Best of Youth

Similar Movies to The Best of Youth

Discover movies like The Best of Youth that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.