A Year of School

A Year of School (2026)



Un anno di scuola

7.0 2026 102 min France, Italy

Director: Laura Samani

Cast: Stella Wendick, Giacomo Covi, Pietro Giustolisi, Samuel Volturno, Magnus Krepper

In 2007, Fred—a spirited 17-year-old transplant from Sweden—steps into a Northeast Italian high school for her senior year, only to discover she’s the sole girl in an all-boys class. Striking and magnetic, she instantly draws the spotlight, especially from three lifelong best friends: Antero, a quietly charming soul; Pasini, a brash ladies’ man; and Mitis, a rough-edged yet wise figure. Their unbreakable brotherhood begins to crack as each secretly vies for Fred’s affection. While she longs to be welcomed as one of the crew, the price of fitting in demands more and more of her—pushing her to the edge of her own identity.

More About This Film

A Year of School (Un anno di scuola) is a Swedish-Italian coming-of-age film directed by Alice Rohrwacher. The story follows Fred, a young girl who moves with her father from Sweden to the coastal city of Trieste. As she attempts to integrate into her new school environment, she forms an unexpected and deep bond with a close-knit trio of local boys, navigating the complexities of adolescence, friendship, and first love.

The film blends elements of a young adult romantic comedy with the nuanced, naturalistic style characteristic of its director. It explores themes of cultural displacement and the universal experiences of growing up, set against the backdrop of Italy's Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. The narrative focuses on Fred's internal journey as she finds her place within this new social dynamic.

Production highlights include the collaboration between Swedish and Italian cinema sectors, marking a significant international co-production effort. The casting features emerging talents alongside established actors familiar with European arthouse cinema, emphasizing authentic performances over star power. Early reception at festivals has praised the film for its delicate handling of teenage emotions and its picturesque setting in Trieste.

  • Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Alice Rohrwacher, known for her distinctive visual storytelling.
  • Set primarily in Trieste, offering a unique geographic and cultural contrast to the protagonist's Swedish origins.
  • Features a soundtrack that reflects both Nordic melancholy and Mediterranean warmth.
  • The film was shot on location to capture the authentic atmosphere of the local schools and streets.

Where to Watch

As a recent or upcoming release depending on the specific distribution window, availability may vary by region and platform updates.