Come mi vuoi (1996)

Before us is an intriguing Italian comedy from 1996 titled "What You Want Me To Be", which tackles themes of identity and self-determination with humor and, judging by the synopsis, some tenderness. This is not just another farcical story, but rather a reflection on how a person's inner world can conflict with external circumstances, seasoned with witty situations.

Plot

At the center of the narrative is Desideria, a woman with a romantic and trusting nature who, despite life's adversities and a broken heart, always strives to act conscientiously. Her seeming old-fashionedness conceals a much deeper and more unusual problem: Desideria is convinced that God mistakenly placed her truly feminine soul in a rough male body. This dilemma becomes the driving force of her existence. Desideria's life takes an unexpected turn when, during a police raid, one of the law enforcement officers, Pasquale, recognizes his old schoolmate Domenico in the long-legged brunette. This moment promises a cascade of comical misunderstandings and re-evaluations, where the past clashes with the present, and appearance with inner essence.

Why You Should Watch It

• Original Concept: The film offers a unique take on the theme of gender identity, presenting it through the prism of comedy, which makes the viewing experience fresh and engaging.

• Profound Humor: Comical situations arise not only from external circumstances but also from the protagonist's inner struggle, as well as her confrontation with a world not always ready to accept "otherness."

• Exploration of Human Nature: Despite its comedic genre, the film touches upon important questions of self-perception, self-acceptance and acceptance of others, and what it means to be true to one's authentic self.

• Intriguing Premise: Desideria's encounter with the policeman Pasquale, who recognizes his school friend in her, promises a plot development full of unexpected twists and emotional revelations.

Themes

"What You Want Me To Be" boldly addresses themes of identity and self-determination, exploring how a person seeks harmony between their inner "I" and the external world. The film raises questions of acceptance – both personal and societal – gender roles and stereotypes, as well as the unchanging power of friendship, which can withstand the test of time and transformations. The comedic wrapping allows these serious themes to be discussed easily and accessibly, without becoming overly didactic.

Editor's Opinion

"What You Want Me To Be" is more than just a situational comedy. It's a witty and, perhaps, touching story about finding one's place in the world, about the difficulty of being oneself when others see you completely differently. The 1996 film likely offers a perspective that was innovative for its time, and even today its central dilemma remains relevant. This is a film for those who appreciate humor with subtext and are willing to ponder deep things while laughing at life's paradoxes. The potential for both sincere laughter and gentle reflection here is great.