A new documentary titled Tirrenica, directed by Rosario Minervini, premiered at the Thessaloniki International Film Festival on March 10, 2024. The film explores the lives of individuals living alongside the Salerno–Reggio Calabria highway, a project that was once heralded as a significant engineering achievement aimed at bridging the economic divide between Southern and Northern Italy.
The documentary presents a stark contrast between the ambitious plans for the highway and the harsh realities faced by those who inhabit its margins. Initially unveiled in the 1960s, the highway was intended to rejuvenate the economically struggling southern regions of Italy. However, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that the promises made were often unfulfilled. The synopsis notes that these pledges were “as pompous as the scale of the project,” leaving many communities feeling neglected and marginalized.
Tirrenica takes viewers on a journey through time, juxtaposing past expectations with the present struggles of its subjects. Among them is a man who, after losing his job of twelve years, adapts to life as a shepherd, residing in a caravan without access to basic utilities such as water and electricity. The film introduces a variety of characters, including individuals who salvage discarded items, practice target shooting, and advocate for civil rights. Each character is given a distinct label such as The Revolutionary, The Hoarder, The Shepherd, and The Sharpshooter, illustrating the diverse experiences of those living near the highway.
Documenting Reality and Resistance
The film delves into the implications of the highway project, which took over six decades to complete, and how it has become emblematic of the very issues it was meant to solve. It highlights how the project symbolizes the “country of two speeds,” emphasizing the structural challenges facing Italy. As noted in the synopsis, the documentary sheds light on the “structural pathologies of the Italian state,” effectively capturing the disillusionment felt by many residents.
In his director’s statement, Minervini describes Tirrenica as an observational film that seeks to break away from cultural clichés surrounding Southern Italy. He emphasizes that the highway serves as a connective thread, weaving together narratives of solitude, survival, and quiet resistance. The film’s artistic approach combines current and archival footage, alongside a poignant musical score, to create an immersive experience that invites viewers to engage with the lives of its subjects.
The exclusive trailer for Tirrenica has been released, showcasing the film’s vibrant characters and the stark contrast between their daily lives and the grandiose promises of the past. While the trailer is in Italian, it effectively conveys the emotional depth and visual storytelling that define the documentary.
Those interested in exploring a side of Southern Italy that diverges from typical tourist narratives will find Tirrenica to be a compelling watch. The film not only challenges stereotypes but also serves as a critical reflection on the ongoing socio-economic issues within the region.
As audiences prepare to engage with these powerful stories, Tirrenica stands as a reminder of the complexities that exist beneath the surface of a country often perceived through a narrow lens.
