RIFF: "Lessons in Forgetting" (*1/2)

Maya Tideman and Uttara Baokar star in "Lessons in Forgetting"

"Lessons in Forgetting" was the first feature I was able to see upon arriving in Rome. The Indian production's inclusion into the festival should be noted more as evidence to RIFF's international nature and less for the film's quality. Author Anita Nair adapted the screenplay from her own book and grabs your attention pretty quickly. Unfortunately, a messy structure and shallow performances keep "Lessons in Forgetting" from feeling like anything more than an 80's made-for-television film.

2012 Rome International Film Festival in review

The DeSoto Theatre marquee.

I had a great time up in Rome this weekend. Bookended with great films, the 9th Rome International Film Festival (RIFF) was filled to the brim with quality features, docs and shorts. Fourteen different countries were represented and several filmmakers, producers, actors and industry tradesmen were in attendance. Great venues situated among a vibrant downtown scene really gave the fest a cosmopolitan, but cozy vibe. It is easy to see why RIFF has a great reputation, even among the older and larger festivals.

You've already seen the reviews I posted for "American Songwriter" and "Born & Raised." Starting this week, I'll be posting reviews for more features from the fest, including "Lessons in Forgetting," "Out on a Limb," "Hombre y Tierra," "La Source," "The Red Machine" and "Heathens & Thieves." In addition to these features, I'll share brief reviews for over two dozen of the short films I screened.

Keep checking back for more RIFF coverage. I've posted some photos from around town after the jump.