A cultural event against violence and organised crime, using cinema, theatre and storytelling as social therapy
On 18 March, Libreria Raffaello in the Vomero district of Naples (Via Kerbaker 35) hosted the presentation of the book “Show, Don’t Tell” by AL FENDERICO. The event brought together teachers, students, and institutional representatives. It was a powerful evening of culture and civic engagement. The book, available internationally via Amazon at this link, was introduced in dialogue with local authorities as a tool to help younger generations turn creativity into both profession and personal growth.
The event featured contributions from Alessandra Clemente, City Councillor in Naples, who is the daughter of anti-mafia victim Silvia Ruotolo. Another contributor was Davide D’Errico, a social entrepreneur and member of the Regional Council of Campania, who is the grandson of a victim of organised crime, Lucio D’Errico. Alongside them, AL FENDERICO also commemorated his cousin Chiara Gualzetti, murdered in a case of femicide. Through these stories, the evening highlighted the crucial role of memory, culture, and education. These elements must become instruments of collective responsibility. This is especially vital for young people in Italy, Europe, and worldwide. They face challenges like social pressure, violence, and digital overload.
Testimonies: from Naples to the world
During his speech, AL FENDERICO shared a deeply personal testimony. He stood side by side with Alessandra Clemente and Davide D’Errico. Together, they remembered their loved ones. They reflected on how these losses still question society and the education system today. The event integrated three video-testimonies, available online and shareable via link:
- Chiara Gualzetti remembered by AL FENDERICO:
- Silvia Ruotolo remembered by her daughter Alessandra Clemente:
- Lucio D’Errico remembered by Davide D’Errico:
These materials provide English-speaking audiences and international media with direct access to three emblematic stories of violence and resilience. They come with Italian audio and original context. The stories are rooted in Italy but resonate globally. They address urgent issues like organised crime, gender-based violence, and youth vulnerability.
Theatre, cinema and performance as social and educational tools
AL FENDERICO drew on the ideas of Russian anarchist philosopher Pëtr Kropotkin. He highlighted how moral sense arises from social life. It also stems from our capacity to identify with others. In this perspective, he framed theatre, cinema, and performance as concrete tools. These tools help develop empathy and emotional intelligence in younger generations. These skills are crucial in schools and communities across Europe, North America, and beyond.
He also recalled an iconic line from popular cinema – “With great power comes great responsibility.” He used this line to stress that our greatest “power” is our mind, our capacity to love, and our cultural heritage. All of these must be protected and nurtured as a common good. From Naples to London, New York, Toronto or Los Angeles, his appeal was clear. Schools, institutions, and communities must continue to work together. Culture must become a real instrument of prevention, healing, and social redemption. It should not be just entertainment.
Show, Don’t Tell: a practical handbook for filmmakers and storytellers
During the event, AL FENDERICO presented the core of “Show, Don’t Tell”: a practical handbook. This book targets aspiring screenwriters, producers, and directors. It helps them turn an idea into an audiovisual project capable of reaching the screen. The book is structured as an operational guide. It walks readers step by step from the first story spark through character and structure. Then, it guides them through pitching to the crucial greenlight moment.
At the same time, the author emphasised how the method of “show, don’t tell” can serve as a space of care and self-awareness. By learning to show rather than simply explain, young people can explore their emotions, traumas and aspirations through scenes and characters. This can occur in classrooms, workshops and labs across Italy, the UK, the US, Canada and worldwide.
Culture as a shield against violence
The evening brought together AL FENDERICO, Alessandra Clemente, Davide D’Errico, and Umberto Santacroce. He is the artistic director of The Gulf of Naples Independent Film Festival. They engaged in a conversation about the role of culture as a defence against violence. They also discussed culture as a vehicle for social mobility and redemption. All four speakers have been active in social, educational, and cultural projects for a long time. They emphasized the need to build stable alliances between schools, families, institutions, and the arts. This ensures no story of pain remains invisible. It also ensures every young person can find safe places to express themselves.
For more information and to follow ongoing social and educational projects by AL FENDERICO, Alessandra Clemente, Davide D’Errico and Umberto Santacroce, an updated hub of links and materials is available here.
Belong: from award-winning screenplay to bilingual novel
AL FENDERICO closed the evening with an announcement of his new editorial project. It is the novel “Belong,” published by Make A Wish Book Publishing. This novel is adapted from the original feature-length screenplay written together with Carlo Finale. AL FENDERICO has written the story as a novel in both Italian and English. The English edition will be published under the title “Belong: A soul’s diary.” This title highlights the intimate nature of the narrative. It also emphasizes its identity-driven themes. The screenplay “Belong” has already gained international recognition. It received an Honorable Mention – Best Screenplay for Feature Film at the A Royal Chance Film Festival 2024 in Los Angeles (California, USA). It also won an award at The Gulf of Naples Independent Film Festival in Naples (Italy). Finally, the screenplay reached the Top 50 longlist at The UK Film Festival Script Competitions in London (United Kingdom). The novel’s official release date has not yet been announced, but it will be revealed soon. The book aims to engage readers worldwide with a story. It explores themes of identity, belonging, and rebirth. This creates a bridge between Naples, Los Angeles, London, and a global audience.
If you are a filmmaker or just an aspiring one, you can learn filmmaking by purchasing this book. Get it from our shop , Amazon or Barnes & Noble.
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