Game of Love is a 2022 romantic drama film directed by Elisa Amoruso, starring Bella Thorne and Benjamin Mascolo. Set in a beautiful Italian villa, filled with emotion, sensuality, and personal revelations, the film explores what happens when love is challenged by the truth — and whether passion can survive painful revelations.
The film is a sequel to Time Is Up (2021), continuing the story of Vivien and Roy as they navigate the next chapter of their love story.
Plot Summary
Vivien (Bella Thorne), an independent and thoughtful young woman, and Roy (Benjamin Mascolo), a rebellious romantic with a troubled past, find their way back to each other after the events of Time Is Up. In Game of Love, the couple arrives at the Roy family estate in Italy, expecting a relaxing time together — but things quickly get complicated.
As Roy reunites with his family and confronts unresolved emotional issues, long-buried secrets begin to surface. Vivien, caught in the middle of mounting tension, begins to question what she really wants — from love, from life, and from Roy. The picture-perfect romance is suddenly threatened as both characters are forced to confront each other’s personal insecurities and complexities from their pasts.
Themes
The Game of Love revolves around:Emotional trauma in relationships
The impact of family history on personal identityHealing through love and communicationThe fragility of trust in romantic relationships
Wrapped in the beauty of a modern love story, the film delves into emotional territory, asking what it really takes to build a lasting relationship.
Cinematography and Style
Set in the Italian countryside, The Game of Love is visually stunning. Golden lighting, sweeping shots of Tuscan villas and opulent interiors create a dreamy, intimate atmosphere that contrasts with the growing tension between the two main characters.
The film leans toward a soft, romantic visual style with intensely sensual moments, reflecting the emotional ups and downs that Vivien and Roy go through. The music complements this tone, with soft piano pieces and dramatic flourishes in key scenes.
Performance
Bella Thorne brings nuance and emotional weight to Vivien, portraying a woman torn between passion and self-esteem. Her performance captures the confusion and strength of someone learning to love without losing herself.
Benjamin Mascolo, in his final appearance before leaving the spotlight, portrays Roy with a quiet intensity – mixing charm with deep emotional vulnerability. Their chemistry, both on and off screen, brings authenticity to their romantic relationship.
Reception
Game of Love received mixed reviews. Some praised the film’s emotional authenticity and visual beauty, while others found the plot too heavy on the dramatic elements. Time Is Up fans appreciated the continuation of Vivien and Roy’s relationship, as well as the film’s exploration of deeper personal conflicts.
While not a blockbuster, the film resonated with younger audiences looking for a mature look at love and the challenges of personal growth within a relationship.
Conclusion
Game of Love (2022) is a visually rich and emotionally charged romantic drama that pushes the boundaries of love. It depicts the ups and downs of a relationship pushed to the limit, reminding us that true love isn’t always easy — but it’s always worth fighting for.
If you enjoy deep, heartbreaking love stories and beautiful European landscapes, Game of Love might be your next emotional release.
