In “The Unknown Woman”, a Ukrainian woman, Irena (Kseniya Rappoport), tries to insinuate herself into an affluent Italian family by becoming a maid and nanny to their young daughter. At first, it seems Irena seems to be a thief because she takes a keen interest in their many belongings. But of course the story goes deeper. As the film progresses, Irene’s layered past begins to unfold. Her past is anything but pleasant, having to survive the prostitution ring and other malicious acts from men. Irene thinks she has to instill the same physical and mental toughness into the Italian child in unpleasant ways.Get more information here. http://primociak.wordpress.com/2011/07/28/the-best-offer-from-giuseppe-tornatore/ This mystery, thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat and the mystery that is Irene will keep you talking long after the credits roll.
Directed by Giuseppe Tornatore, “The Unknown Woman” could be about love. The fact Irene wants to protect the frail child from the cruel world by toughening her up and making her mentally prepared to go out into the world, could be a twisted way of her loving the child. The ways in which she “toughens” the child up is disturbing but perhaps there is love underneath her somewhat heinous acts.
