Vermiglio

The ending of “Vermiglio” reveals a poignant picture of the characters’ lives shaped by societal expectations and personal sacrifices. Ada, who once struggled with her desires and felt misunderstood, chooses to become a nun, seeking the safety and authority that her faith can provide. This decision might also be a way for her to hide her true self and avoid confronting her feelings or the shame associated with her sexuality. Her quiet moment of smoking a cigarette in her room symbolizes her brief rebellion but also her acceptance of her place in a life she believes she cannot escape. Throughout the film, Ada’s journey underscores her internal conflict between desire and the constraints placed upon her by her environment.

Meanwhile, Lucia’s fate is marked by heartbreak and betrayal. Her marriage to Pietro, initially seen as a hopeful new beginning, is destroyed when she learns he was already married and had kept that a secret. Pietro’s death—murdered by his wife Anna in a fit of rage—leaves Lucia devastated and pregnant with their child, whom she now considers a curse. Her journey reflects the harsh reality faced by women who are powerless in the face of societal pressures and personal loss, forcing her into a life of hardship as a single mother. Lucia’s decision to leave her infant at the convent and seek closure by visiting Pietro’s grave signifies her attempt to reconcile with her grief and the brutal truths of her life.

In the broader picture, the film ends with the three sisters parting ways—Ada in her religious life, Lucia surviving her trauma as a single mother, and Flavia beginning her own journey with hopes of education and independence. The family’s cycle continues with Adele pregnant again, highlighting the ongoing repetition of their traditional lifestyle. The ending offers a somber yet realistic commentary on the constraints of their world—each character’s choice is shaped by their circumstances, and their emotional landscapes remain marked by loss, secret desires, and the pursuit of some form of freedom within their limited options. Ultimately, the film leaves us with a sense of resignation but also a quiet acknowledgment of the resilience and complexity of these women’s lives.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 09:03