Fireworks
I was unaware of this gay coming of age film until yesterday. It is based on a true story that resulted in more widespread awareness in Italy of homophobia and the rights for gay groups by Italian authorities. You can read more about it here but you might want to watch the film first. Knowing what happens didn't spoil the experience but I realize some prefer to be unsullied. I recommend reading it either way.
"Fireworks" gets its name from the business a character's family owns and the sparks set off by young love. It left me speechless and also relieved that the director opted not to exploit the events. Two teenage boys in Sicily meets in a motorcycle accident. The camera captures a stunning overhead shot as two different paths converge, one boy on each path. Their fates are linked as the crash into one another. <PERSON> and <PERSON> quickly fall in love. The kind that makes you feel you're walking on cloud nine despite all the hate, shame and gossip surrounding you.
Both actors have an openness that draw you into their inner world. I was particularly impressed with <PERSON>). The way he lovingly looks at <PERSON> melted my heart every time. His innocence and light were such that I couldn't bare to see it dimmed. <PERSON> has had a tougher life and is used to being known as the neighborhood "puppu 'ccô bullu" ("licensed homosexual"). 369
We see him relentlessly bullied but once he meets <PERSON> all that demonization melts away. All he needs is to know that another boy loves him. Until then it appears that he's only known to be used sexually by closeted men.
While the running time might appear a bit long, I never felt it. Director <PERSON> makes sure we get to know the families and the Sicilian town that can't reckon with two boys innocently in love. The film is beautifully shot making it all the easier to fall under its spell (unless you're looking at your phone! put it away!). There are a number of characters especially <PERSON>’s resentful nephew that are important to observe. It's all in the glances and body language. If you're distracted you'll miss important characterization of the supporting roles.
Some might say we don't need stories filled with homophobia and the pain and anguish of being gay but I disagree. Yes, acceptance of gays has greatly improved in the mainstream media and in cities but there are plenty of places, including in the United States where being gay is considered a sin and/or an excuse for hatred. Plus younger generations should know what came before. How much of a secret it had to be. How you had to pretend to be disgusted about who you love and/or desire. Even worse you couldn't help but to hate yourself, praying for the day when you'd no longer be burdened with your "un"natural instincts.
*As of this review it's only $1.99 rental on iTunes and Amazon. A great deal! It's a 2023 Italian release and just recently became available in the U.S. Thus I'm considering it for my favorite films of 2024. 378