Stranizza d'amuri

Humankind is not fit for any redemption, no not even in a million years. We are jealous, greedy, nasty and just can't see another person happy. Gianni and Nino just two beautiful souls, will be together in each others arms, remembering their eternal pure love. It was heartfelt that Gianni was never treated the way he was or the way Nino was. Beautiful film so naturally played out and they have made this their own story. No one could have played it better. I was in tears in the end and wish more maturity among parents and civilization to let live and give space for love to flourish. Ah what a pity the civilization rides to oblivion without a heart.

This movie captivates the senses with its meticulously crafted visuals and poignant storytelling. Every frame of this film is a testament to the director's vision, blending realism with a touch of whimsy to create an immersive experience. The deliberate pacing and composition of each shot invite the audience to engage deeply with the narrative.

The characters are portrayed with authenticity that resonates with the times, making their journeys all the more compelling. The natural performances by the cast add a layer of sincerity to the narrative, further drawing the viewer into the world of the film. The editing complements the storytelling as well. Every frame has a purpose.

The cinematography is truly exceptional, with each shot crafted to convey both intimacy and artistry. The setting of 1980s Italy, depicted with golden hues and a nostalgic atmosphere, adds a layer of charm to the film.

Maybe honesty is the basic virtue of this film about teenagers, their love, about Sicily and answers to what can not be accepted .

It is a film of details, landscapes, people, tastes, colors, forms of seduction and intimancy.

And , in same measure, it is an admirable expression of freshness , from acting to dialogue, from the moments of pure happiness to clashes in so many senses.

A true story sounds, foer many reasons, a good kick to see it. But Stranizza d amuri has the precious gift to be an universal story, out of gay case, out of a place from Europe, out of cliches or melodrama.

In many senses, a simple confession about love, people and rules of a land.

As a Sicilian origins I knew the story but I didn't expect to watch such a finest way to describe it.

This movie it's absolutely well made.

I got immediately in "nostalgia" mood from the first. Everything is well cured, photography, sound, light, costume, words, gestures, expressions. I could almost smell the tomato sauce, the coeffee on the table, the dry grass in the summer, the cicadas, the smell of the fireworks, even if the "carne simmenthal" with the lemon... Yes, it was really hard to watch the story, no easy/cheesy tears or stereotypes as you can expect but the movie gives to you a kick in the stomach, given by the ignorance, the lack of empathy and cruelty of the disgraced human being...and lot of anger.

For this reason the story its not only about homofoby.

Even if the direction seems to be quite light, silence, untold words, I can see the contrast with the real drama that seems coming from the narrative of Giovanni Verga, verist, realist, humble, pure and cruel as life unfortunately can be.

Beside all there's a delicate touch of innocence, a smile, a look, a "stolen kiss" and lot of silence full of meanings and understanding.

..."Quello che si fa di nascosto si può fare per cent'anni"...but shouldn't be like that!

A movie of sadness, joy, struggle, heartbreak, betrayal... it captivates the heart and mind through a most difficult time in Sicilian society in the 1980's. The enormous love shared by two won out over the ridicule and rejection of others. Watch this movie, it might be just above a snails pace at times, but overall is worth the time.

Gabriele Pizzurro and Samuele Segreto do an outstanding job in acting and the subtle expressions that make the movie so believable... then when you learn its based on a true story, it leaves you contemplating it for days. Very touching...

You will enjoy this movie very much.