The Sicilian Girl

Friday, July 23rd, 2010

Film Forum presents:  The Sicilian Girl, directed by Marco Amenta

Based on the true story of Rita Atria and Judge Paolo Borsellino. ONE GIRL AGAINST THE MAFIA, a documentary by Marco Amenta, played in 2002 at Film Forum. THE SICILIAN GIRL is his dramatic retelling of Rita Atria’s story: how a 17-year-old Sicilian whose father and brother were both Mafia members (and victims) breaks the vow of silence that enshrouds that world, and gives evidence to famed anti-Mafia judge Borsellino. Drawing upon Rita’s extensive diaries, the filmmaker tells her story, beginning in Sicily in 1985. A small child experiences her beloved father as a respected member of the community, a man to whom neighbors turn for help when a rapacious landlord orders their eviction. Soon after, he’s shot dead in the sun-drenched village square as his daughter looks on. Six years later, her brother is murdered. In court, Rita’s words are denounced as “the ravings of a fanatical adolescent bent on revenge.” But are they?

ITALY • 2008 • 110 MINS. • IN ITALIAN WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES • MUSIC BOX FILMS

Tagged: Past Events

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