Giovanni Tortorici’s feature film “Diciannove” marks a significant entry into the world of contemporary cinema—one that brims with unbridled creativity and complex themes. Acquired by Oscilloscope Laboratories, this film captures the poignant struggles of youth against the backdrop of societal expectations and personal ambition. It’s rare for a first-time director to exhibit such an audacious vision, but Tortorici manages to craft a narrative that feels both profound and urgent.
The story follows Leonardo (Manfredi Marini), a teenager from Palermo, as he steps into the turbulent waters of adulthood. His journey, which takes him from the familiar comforts of home to the academic rigors of Siena and the chaotic allure of London, reflects a universal experience—every young person grapples with finding their identity while confronting the realities of the life that awaits them.
Character Lawlessness: A Reflection of Today’s Youth
“Diciannove” shines a spotlight on the tumultuous experience of growing up, where every emotional high is accompanied by the crushing weight of self-doubt. Leonardo’s encounter with his instructor and the academic community not only brings conflict but also symbolizes the larger struggle many face when grappling with traditions and modernity. Tortorici employs a whimsical yet harsh lens to explore these dynamics, making Leonardo’s tribulations resonate not just on a personal level, but as reflective of our times.
Oscilloscope’s Andrew Carlin praises Tortorici’s vibrant and confident direction, noting the innovative techniques that create a captivating viewing experience. This signifies a commendable departure from stale cinematic conventions; it serves as a much-needed reminder of the compelling narratives often overshadowed by mainstream cinema. In doing so, Tortorici manages to create a film that feels necessary—one that resonates with the urgency of a generation discontent with suffocating norms.
The Influence of Italian Artistic Heritage
What enhances “Diciannove” further is its grounded connection to Italian cinema’s rich artistic heritage while simultaneously forging its own path. With Luca Guadagnino onboard as producer, the film intertwines cultural nuances with a modern lens, bridging the past and the present elegantly. Tortorici embodies this duality, invoking a reflective commentary on Italian youth that transcends borders. This synthesis highlights a disappointing trend in American cinema: a lack of authenticity when dealing with international narratives.
As audiences immerse themselves in Tortorici’s vision of a restless youth, it’s evident that “Diciannove” holds a mirror to society, challenging spectators to confront their preconceived notions about independence, ambition, and identity. In a world saturated with formulaic outputs, this film emerges as a beacon for those craving authenticity—a testament to not just Tortorici’s potential but also the future of international cinema.
The Arthouse Renaissance
“Ticiannove” is positioned as the closing night feature at MoMI’s 2025 First Look Festival—a fitting stage for a film that represents the transformation of the arthouse scene. With a resurgence in the appreciation for nuanced storytelling, the timing of this film could not be more perfect. The willingness of entities like Oscilloscope to champion emerging filmmakers against a backdrop of rising elitism in the film industry is commendable.
The film, unveiling layers of emotional complexity intertwined with vibrant storytelling, is a powerful reminder of how cinema can provoke thought and dialogue. The burden of addressing the intricacies of youth may weigh heavily upon its characters, but it empowers the film to compel a meaningful conversation, igniting an urgent passion for change and connection.
In a cinematic landscape often obsessed with profit margins, “Diciannove” speaks to the heart, reminding us of the rich narratives waiting to be uncovered. It’s a film that not only deserves to be celebrated but one that must be experienced—if only to witness the artistry and talent of a remarkable new voice in film.