Film review: An affair becomes a relationship after three dates, the film argues

A woman meets a man in a small bar in Rome. He is already in a relationship, and so is she, although her situation is complicated. After three meetings, an affair turns into a relationship, according to A Short Story of Love.

The film marks the directorial debut of Ludovica Rampoldi, who has had a longer career as a screenwriter. Her first feature mixes several styles, combining the familiar elements of romantic comedy and relationship drama with a few refreshing twists.

The premise remains recognizable: two people are drawn together while existing commitments complicate what might otherwise be a straightforward romance. The film’s central setup is presented as an old story, but Rampoldi approaches it with small variations.

The actors ultimately keep the film afloat. Their performances give energy to a production that otherwise leans heavily on well-known romantic-comedy drama conventions.