Something New (Qualcosa di nuovo) is a 2016 Italian romantic comedy directed by Cristina Comencini, adapted from her own stage play. The film delivers a refreshing, witty, and heartfelt exploration of modern relationships, female friendship, and the search for emotional authenticity in a world where love often feels unpredictable and complicated.

The story follows two best friends, Lucia (Paola Cortellesi) and Maria (Micaela Ramazzotti), who couldn’t be more different when it comes to love and men. Lucia is bitter and disillusioned after a painful breakup; she’s sworn off relationships altogether. Maria, on the other hand, is spontaneous, flirtatious, and addicted to romance — she can’t live without love, even if it’s fleeting.

Their lives take an unexpected turn one night when Maria arranges a date but ends up sending Luca (Eduardo Valdarnini), a much younger man, to Lucia by mistake. What begins as a misunderstanding soon develops into a tangled, emotional encounter that challenges both women’s beliefs about love, freedom, and what they truly want from life.

Cristina Comencini crafts the story with warmth and intelligence, blending humor with moments of genuine introspection. The film doesn’t rely on grand romantic clichés; instead, it focuses on human vulnerability — the fear of getting hurt, the thrill of connection, and the desire to start anew.

The performances are outstanding, especially from Paola Cortellesi and Micaela Ramazzotti, whose chemistry as best friends feels natural and compelling. Their contrasting personalities drive the story’s humor and heart, while Eduardo Valdarnini brings a fresh, sincere energy as the young man who unknowingly forces both women to face their emotional truths.

Visually, Something New captures the vibrancy of contemporary Rome, using warm colors and lively music to mirror the film’s romantic and comedic tone.

At its core, Something New is a celebration of change and self-discovery. It reminds viewers that love can arrive when least expected, and that sometimes, to find something real, we must first let go of what’s familiar. Honest, funny, and touching, the film invites audiences to embrace the messiness of modern love — because even in confusion, there’s always room for something new.