“God gives his hardest battles to his strongest soldiers.” (12 repliche)
The Hidden Review attended the XXIV edition of the Napoli Film Festival 2023, where 12 Repliche (12 Shows) premiered. Written and directed by Gianfranco Gallo, the film stars Gallo himself. The cast features Gianni Parisi, Gianluca Di Gennaro, Roberto Azzurro, and Elvis Esposito. It also includes Peppe Miale, Mariacarla Casillo, Lisa Imperatore, Margherita Di Rauso, Franco Javarone and Ester Geatta are part of the cast as well.
Plot and Setting: Naples in 2016 During a Time of Change
12 Repliche is an independent LGBTQ feature drama produced by Maxadv with support from the Campania Film Commission. The story unfolds in Naples in 2016, the year Italy’s Cirinnà law was approved, marking progress for LGBTQ rights.
The film focuses on Andrea Michelini. He is a veteran theatre maker who is openly gay. He is in a relationship with Rolando Spinelli, played by Gianni Parisi. Additionally, standout performances come from Gianluca Di Gennaro and Mariacarla Casillo. They portray the adopted son and daughter respectively. Lisa Imperatore and the rest of the talented cast also deliver co-supporting roles.
Themes: Passion, Illness, and Dedication to Theatre
The narrative portrays Andrea’s struggle with leukemia. He is rehearsing for a 12-day run of Banana Blu. This is a play he wrote. Andrea also directed and stars in it. His resilience shines through. He insists, “If I am gonna die, it will happen on stage and not in a hospital.” His passion and determination inspire his theatre company, echoing the legendary work ethic of Naples’ Eduardo De Filippo.
Scenes set in the hospital highlight Andrea’s efforts to bring joy to young patients, reminiscent of Patch Adams. Despite his illness, Andrea finds happiness in simple moments and in supporting others.
Production Quality: A Triumph of Creativity on a Small Budget
Though low-budget and filmed during the COVID-19 pandemic, 12 Repliche impresses with its cinematography, screenplay, and crew work. The film is a testament to how creative vision and dedication can shine through resource limitations.
Final Thoughts: A Proud Achievement in LGBTQ Cinema
Overall, 12 Repliche is a heartfelt and powerful film that combines social relevance with dramatic storytelling. Its premiere at Napoli Film Festival 2023 confirms it as an important contribution to LGBTQ and Italian independent cinema.
12 Repliche is now available on Prime Video.
Hidden Fire stars 8/10 ️
Review written by Al Fenderico
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