Netflix's "The Tearsmith" is adapted from the bestselling novel of the same name by Italian author Erin Doom. Directed by Alessandro Genovesi, known for "My Big Gay Italian Wedding," the film boasts a cast of numerous up-and-coming actors, with Simone Baldasseroni and Caterina Ferioli in the lead roles.
"The Tearsmith" follows the story of Nica, a girl raised in an orphanage on a cemetery, who believes in the legend of the Tearsmith, a mythical figure said to help the undead regain normal emotions and feelings. After being adopted by a kind couple and fulfilling her biggest dream, Nica puts this legend behind her. However, just when she thinks her life is back on track, she unexpectedly meets Rigel, a mysterious boy she never wanted to see again, who has also been adopted by the same family. To make matters worse, despite being sworn enemies, the two are inexplicably drawn to each other.
Essentially, "The Tearsmith" is a "Twilight" fanfiction
Teen romance films often share a common trait – the protagonist's background is typically tumultuous, involving either tragedy, parental separation, incurable illness, or psychological trauma. "The Tearsmith" wastes no time in revealing Nica's tragic past, depicting her parents' death in a car accident and her subsequent placement in an orphanage, where she meets the male lead, Rigel. From there, the plot of "The Tearsmith" unfolds predictably, adhering to formulaic conventions, with the most unexpected parts being awkward and illogical plot twists.
The reason "The Tearsmith" feels like "Twilight" fanfiction primarily lies in the similarity between character traits. For instance, the male lead, Rigel, resembles a combination of "Twilight's" Edward and Jacob, exhibiting the same hot-and-cold attitude towards Nica and exuding a mysterious and captivating aura reminiscent of Edward's character.
Moreover, Rigel's wolf-like characteristics, along with his tendency to bare his muscular physique in front of the camera, are reminiscent of Jacob's traits. Interestingly, the impulsive and hot-headed nature of the male supporting character also bears resemblance to Jacob's personality. Coupled with the cringe-worthy and nonsensical plot developments, it's hard not to draw comparisons to "Twilight."
When Orphanhood Meets "After"
"The Tearsmith" perfectly fits the standard configuration of a campus romance film, boasting attractive casting choices and substantial chemistry between the leads, as well as featuring emotionally charged scenes with a certain degree of intensity. Apart from the obligatory love triangle elements, the portrayal of forbidden emotions on the verge of taboo is also a popular theme.
While the taboo of sibling romance was explored in "My Fault," and the dysfunctional upbringing and complex emotional entanglements bear similarities to "After," the allure of the forbidden love, despite the inevitable harm it may cause, remains irresistible.
However, compared to its counterparts, "The Tearsmith" presents a more concise and impactful story without unnecessary digressions. Although traces of typical teenage romance dramas are evident, there are no repetitive break-up and reconciliation cycles, nor are there any hints of a sequel. Furthermore, aside from the romantic elements, the film addresses serious issues such as abuse in orphanages and the journey to rediscover the capacity to love and be loved after trauma, presenting meaningful and rarely seen positive aspects within this genre, making the film stand out.
The legend of the Tearsmith is the only hope left for the children of the orphanage, their lives having turned into a nightmare from the day they were trapped within the walls of their cage. The happiness and cherished memories they once had before becoming orphans were destroyed, and even their emotions were stripped away. They are like the walking dead in the legend, longing for the Tearsmith to bring redemption one day or to escape from this earthly purgatory.
Although Nica and Rigel experienced vastly different treatment in the orphanage, the pain they endured left lasting scars on their souls, rendering them broken and incomplete inside. It's only through their encounter and mutual affection that they gradually learn to unlock the chains in their hearts and muster the courage to confront their demons and scars, all in the name of protecting their beloved. Perhaps the past cannot be changed, but the future can be rewritten, creating a fulfilling conclusion for each other despite their imperfections.
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