Writer-director Giuseppe Fiorello and co-writer Andrea Cedrola’s moving drama, Fireworks, is set in 1982 in Sicily. Gianni (Samuele Segreto) works at his stepfather’s mechanic shop. But this doesn’t stop the shy teen from being bullied for being gay. Unfortunately, Gianni’s life at home is much the same, so he keeps to himself as much as possible.
One day, Gianni meets Nino (Gabriele Pizzurro), and the two share instant chemistry. As the two become better acquainted, they fall in love. In trying to turn their stolen moments into something meaningful, Gianni and Nino go about town and do little things, such as setting off fireworks. Can the two younger lovers find peace, or is the volatile nature of their hometown too much to bear?
Running 2 hours and 14 minutes (including credits), Fireworks is a slow but absorbing watch. A good portion of the first act is setting up Gianni and Nino’s home lives, jobs, and friends (should they have any). Nothing is rushed, which makes everything flow in a very natural way. The second act is the courtship between the leads, which is sweet and sincere. The finale sees the expected “third act break up,” but it goes into unexpected territory at the end. The final 5 seconds change everything in shocking ways.
“…Gianni meets Nino, and the two share instant chemistry.”
Fiorello and director of photography Ramiro Civita capture the dusty yet scenic setting wonderfully. A shot of Gianni and Nino’s mothers on either side of a doorframe is strikingly sad. The faraway observation of townspeople beating Gianni up mimics how others witness the fight but do not intercede. Every shot is thought out with true purpose, and the filmmaker’s care is evident throughout.
Segreto and Pizzurro imbue Fireworks with, well, fireworks. The actors are raw and share a deep, moving connection that all watching feel instantly. Segreto is charming and sweet. Pizzurro’s confidence is fully earned. The supporting cast is equally as excellent, especially as the conclusion draws near.
Fireworks is an endearing but tragic film. The direction is spot-on, and the sundrenched cinematography is stunning. Every actor delivers, and the ending will move everyone watching.
"…deep, moving..."
