The documentary Tirrenica, directed by Rosario Minervini, offers a fresh perspective on Southern Italy, challenging cultural clichés and exploring the human stories behind the Salerno–Reggio Calabria highway. Premiering on March 10, 2024, at the Thessaloniki International Film Festival, the film aims to reveal the complex realities faced by those living along this significant yet troubled infrastructure project.
Unfulfilled Promises of Infrastructure
Originally unveiled in the 1960s, the Salerno–Reggio Calabria highway was heralded as a groundbreaking achievement in Italian engineering. The intention was to connect the economically disadvantaged southern regions of Italy with the more prosperous north. However, the promises made about the highway’s potential have largely gone unfulfilled, as highlighted in Tirrenica. The documentary explores how the project, which took over 60 years to complete, became a symbol of disappointment and neglect.
The film’s narrative intertwines the past and present, showcasing the lives of individuals affected by the highway’s construction. Among them is a man who, after losing his job of 12 years, adapts to a new life as a shepherd, living in a caravan without basic amenities such as water and electricity. Other characters include a civil rights activist named Francesca, a hoarder, and a sharpshooter, each representing different facets of life along the highway.
A Visual and Emotional Journey
Minervini describes Tirrenica as an observational film that delves into the essence of Southern Italy, moving beyond the usual stereotypes. The documentary utilizes a blend of current and archival footage to capture the stark contrast between the high hopes of the past and the everyday struggles of those living in the shadows of a “phantom project.” This approach aims to highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the region, encapsulated in the film’s tagline: “a country of two speeds.”
“Tirrenica is a journey through the lives of those who inhabit its margins, linking stories of solitude, survival, and quiet resistance,” said Minervini.
The film promises to provide viewers with an insightful look at Southern Italy that diverges from typical tourist narratives. As audiences buckle up for this emotional ride, they can expect to encounter a side of Italy that is often overlooked but rich in stories and resilience.
With its world premiere at the Thessaloniki International Film Festival, Tirrenica is poised to engage international audiences and spark discussions about regional identity and the implications of infrastructure development on local communities.
