One of the great works of writer Gabriel García Márquez was translated into cinema by script writer Ronald Harwood and film director Mike Newell. The main characters are Florentino Ariza (Javier Bardem) and Fermina Daza (Giovanna Mezzogiorno). I chose them in old age to illustrate the perseverance of their romantic love trough years even if their communication was limited to occasional public niceties.
They are portrayed here face to face with the expression of maturity of a love allowed to blossom only in their age. On the other hand, what I saw as a shadow in this love triangle is Juvenal Urbino, a rational doctor dedicated to science, progress, the eradication of cholera and the promotion of public works. Fermina was forced by her father in their youth to stop meeting Florentino and eventually wedding Urbino at 21 because he seems to offer her security and love.
The rose was the main promotional feature for the film and in the book is mentioned several times symbolizing Florentino and Fermina passionate love. That symbology is illustrated here by a mature rose blossom full of live and sensuality.