La Tenerezza, or “Tenderness,” is an Italian drama about Lorenzo, a retired lawyer who lives in isolation from the rest of the world. One day, on the way to his apartment, Lorenzo comes across Michela, a charming young woman who is locked out of her flat. He’s captivated by her spontaneity and kindness, quickly forging a friendship with her, her husband, Fabio, and their two children. Slowly, the icy heart of a self-declared misanthropist begins to thaw with buried feelings of empathy.

Gianni Amelio’s La Tenerezza, based on the book 'The Temptation to Be Happy' by Lorenzo Marone, is screening for two days this month at Cinema Akil, Alserkal Avenue’s independent film theatre. Buy tickets at the door or in advance online.