Bread and Tulips

Main Plot

"Bread and Tulips," directed by Silvio Soldini, follows the story of Rosalba, a middle-aged housewife who is accidentally left behind by her tour bus during a family vacation. Seizing the unexpected opportunity, she decides to hitchhike to Venice instead of returning home. In Venice, she finds a new sense of freedom and begins to rediscover herself. She meets an eclectic group of characters, including a charming waiter and a holistic masseuse, who help her see life from a different perspective. As she settles into her new life, Rosalba faces the dilemma of choosing between her newfound independence and her responsibilities back home. The film explores themes of self-discovery, personal growth, and the pursuit of happiness.

Characters

• Licia Maglietta plays Rosalba, a neglected housewife who impulsively starts a new life in Venice, discovering independence and romance, transforming her mundane existence.
• Bruno Ganz plays Fernando Girasole, a charming waiter who befriends and supports the protagonist, Rosalba, as she rediscovers herself in Venice.
• Giuseppe Battiston plays Fernando, a melancholic waiter who befriends the protagonist, helping her rediscover joy and independence in Venice.

Ending Explained

In the movie 'Bread and Tulips,' directed by Silvio Soldini, the ending sees the protagonist, Rosalba, making a definitive choice about her life. After being accidentally left behind by her family during a vacation, Rosalba embarks on an impromptu adventure to Venice, where she finds a sense of freedom and self-discovery. Throughout her stay, she forms meaningful relationships, particularly with Fernando, a charming but melancholic waiter. As the story concludes, Rosalba's husband, Mimmo, sends a private detective to bring her back home. However, Rosalba realizes that her life in Venice, filled with newfound independence and genuine connections, is far more fulfilling than her previous existence. She decides to stay in Venice, embracing her new life and the love she has found with Fernando. This decision marks a significant transformation for Rosalba, symbolizing her break from a mundane and oppressive past to a future where she can truly be herself. The film ends on a hopeful note, celebrating personal growth and the courage to pursue happiness.