Review: A master sensualist returns with an alluring star and not much else in ‘Parthenope’

The film, titled “Parthenope,” revolves around the life of an intelligent, strikingly attractive yet unfulfilled woman. However, the movie seems to focus too much on aesthetics, resembling more of a perfume commercial than a deep narrative exploration. This is a letdown for a director known for his exceptional sensual storytelling abilities. At times, his unique, free-flowing storytelling approach can diminish the intensity of the profound emotions he aims to portray. Unfortunately, in “Parthenope,” the suppression of most of his Fellini-like tendencies in favor of a seductive Michelangelo Antonioni ambiance does not yield consistent results.