Drifters (2011)

An Italian romantic comedy-drama from director Matteo Rovere, exploring forbidden attraction and the tangled emotions of unexpected family bonds.

Drifters - Movie Information

  • Original Title: Gli sfiorati
  • Release Year: 2011
  • Directed by: Matteo Rovere
  • Type: Movie
  • Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance
  • Runtime: 1h 51m
  • Original Language: Italian
  • Spoken Languages: Italian
  • Release Date (Theatrical): September 9, 2011 (Italy), October 25, 2011 (United Kingdom)
  • Alternative Titles: The Touched (US)
  • Production Companies: Fandango, RAI
  • Production Countries: Italy

Drifters - Plot

A man develops an attraction to the daughter of his father's fiancee.

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Drifters - Cast & Crew

Director(s)

  • Matteo Rovere

Main Cast

  • Andrea Bosca
  • Miriam Giovanelli
  • Claudio Santamaria
  • Michele Riondino
  • Asia Argento
  • Sara Centola
  • Massimo Popolizio
  • Aitana Sánchez-Gijón

Writers

  • Laura Paolucci
  • Francesco Piccolo
  • Matteo Rovere

Producers

  • Domenico Procacci
  • Valeria Licurgo
  • Ivan Fiorino
  • Laura Paolucci

Drifters - FAQs

What is Drifters about?

Drifters follows Méte, a young Roman man who finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Belinda, the daughter of his father's new fiancée. What begins as an awkward family situation deepens into something far more complicated, blending romantic tension with sharp comedic observations about desire, identity, and modern Italian life.

Who are the main actors in Drifters?

The film stars Andrea Bosca as Méte and Miriam Giovanelli as Belinda, with strong supporting turns from Claudio Santamaria, Michele Riondino, Asia Argento, Sara Centola, Massimo Popolizio, and Aitana Sánchez-Gijón rounding out the ensemble.

Is Drifters based on a book or true story?

Drifters is adapted from Gli sfiorati, a 1990 novel by Italian author Sandro Veronesi. The story is fictional rather than based on real events, though Veronesi's writing draws on the emotional textures of contemporary Italian urban life and relationships.

Where can you stream Drifters online?

You can stream Drifters on Film Movement Plus, where it's available as part of the platform's flat-rate subscription. For a full and up-to-date list of viewing options in your region, it's worth checking JustWatch for the latest availability.

Who directed Drifters and who wrote the screenplay?

Matteo Rovere directed the film and co-wrote the screenplay alongside Laura Paolucci and Francesco Piccolo. Rovere is a notable Italian filmmaker who has gone on to direct acclaimed projects including the historical epic The First King.

How does the relationship between Méte and Belinda develop?

Méte and Belinda are thrown together when their parents become engaged, making them step-siblings in all but blood. Their growing attraction unfolds with both humor and unease, as the film refuses easy moral judgments and instead explores the messy, often irrational nature of desire and emotional connection.

When was Drifters released and where?

Drifters premiered in Italy on September 9, 2011, followed by a UK release on October 25, 2011. The film is also known under the alternative title The Touched in the United States.

What movies are similar to Drifters?

If Drifters resonated with you, you might enjoy Savage Grace (2007) or Labyrinth of Passion (1982) for their similarly provocative takes on desire and family. For lighter romantic drama, Still Time (2023) and Happiness for Beginners (2023) offer engaging, emotionally rich viewing experiences.

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