The Fortunate Ones

Raised without parents in an isolated mansion on Portugal’s southernmost coast, Milene (Rita Cabaco) turned out a sort of adult wild child — impulsive, often withdrawn, prone to hysterical outbursts. When her grandmother-minder dies, the stuffy relatives who ignored Milene until now must decide what to “do with” her. Institutionalization? Some menial job? They don’t reckon she might have her own firm ideas on the matter, especially after she meets construction worker Antonino (Milton Lopes), who’s part of a much warmer clan living on the grounds of the shuttered factory that once enriched her own family. The heart wants what it wants…but will anyone respect Milene’s desires? Veteran Swiss writer-director Jeanne Waltz has crafted a delicate yet sturdy and flavorful drama that treats a challenged mental-health status with hope and humor, minus sentimentality or condescension. (Mill Valley Film Festival)