The Tiger and the Snow

In 2003 Italy, Professor Attilio de Giovanni, a passionate poet and father of two, becomes enamored with Vittoria, a fellow writer. His attempts to win her affection are met with indifference, yet he remains undeterred, dreaming of a future together punctuated by the whimsical notion of a tiger crossing the snow.

Vittoria embarks on a dangerous journey to Iraq to write the biography of Fuad, a close friend and poet returning from France. Her trip becomes pivotal as it leads her into the chaos of the Baghdad invasion, setting the stage for a series of unexpected events.

Amidst the turmoil of the invasion, Vittoria sustains injuries that put her life at risk. This event catalyzes Attilio's determination to save her, despite being far from the battlefield.

In a daring act, Attilio disguises himself as a Red Cross surgeon and sneaks onto a flight to Iraq to be by Vittoria's side. His bravery is a testament to his commitment and love, showing that he is willing to risk everything for her.

Upon arrival at the Iraqi hospital, Attilio meets Fuad, who, despite his own struggles, shows kindness and directs him to an elderly pharmacist. This pharmacist introduces ancient remedies that provide temporary stabilization for Vittoria's worsening condition.

As Vittoria's health declines, Attilio acquires scuba gear and humorously brands a flyswatter as the 'weapon of mass destruction' sought by the U.S. forces. His resourcefulness and humor shine through as he seeks to keep her alive under dire circumstances.

Determined to provide better care for Vittoria, Attilio ventures to an Italian Red Cross camp to gather more sophisticated medical supplies. His relentless efforts underline his dedication to saving her life amidst the chaos.

Attilio's return to Italy is bittersweet as he learns of Fuad's tragic suicide. This revelation strikes hard, as Attilio reflects on how he was blinded by his concerns for Vittoria, missing the signs of Fuad's inner turmoil.

Just as Vittoria begins to awaken from her coma, Attilio is mistakenly apprehended by U.S. forces as an enemy combatant. This moment symbolizes the chaotic nature of war where allies and enemies can easily become blurred.

Having regained his freedom, Attilio returns to Italy forever changed by his experience in Iraq. This journey not only influenced his character but also reignited his feelings for Vittoria.

As Attilio reconnects with Vittoria, their complicated past comes to light, marked by Attilio's previous distractions and the presence of another woman. This realization adds layers to their relationship, which is a mixture of longing and unresolved issues.

A fire breaks out at a local circus, causing chaos in the streets of the city. This incident coincides with Attilio's departure and triggers a series of events that pull him back into Vittoria's life.

During the tumult from the circus fire, a magnificent tiger escapes and crosses paths with Vittoria as she drives through the ash-filled streets. The spectacle is a haunting reminder of the earlier whimsical fantasies that Attilio had about a tiger crossing the snow.

Vittoria begins to recognize a similarity between the stranger who kissed her forehead during her recovery and Attilio's mannerisms. This sparks a realization about their connection, layered with unspoken feelings and nostalgia.

As fate intertwines their lives, Attilio is found wearing a necklace that once belonged to Vittoria, now a symbolic clue to their intertwined destinies. This discovery reignites old memories and feelings, making them face their complicated past.