The Same

The film follows the story of a young man, Carmelo, living in the Calabrian 'ndrangheta region of Italy. He is entangled in the criminal underworld due to his family's deep ties to the mafia. As he navigates this dangerous environment, he grapples with the expectations placed upon him and the violent realities of his life. The narrative explores his internal conflict and the pervasive influence of organized crime on his existence.

"The Same" received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its authentic portrayal of life in Calabria and the powerful performances, particularly from its lead actors. The film was noted for its raw and unflinching look at the cyclical nature of crime and its impact on individuals and communities, though some found its pacing deliberate.

• Praised for its authentic and immersive depiction of Calabrian life and the mafia.

• Commended for strong performances that convey the weight of generational crime.

• Noted for its stark, realistic portrayal of a difficult subject matter.

Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's realistic approach to its subject matter and the compelling performances from the cast. Many found the portrayal of the region and the struggles of its inhabitants to be impactful and thought-provoking.

Nominated for Best Film at the Venice Film Festival.

Director Jonas Carpignano drew heavily on his own experiences and observations living in Calabria to craft the authentic atmosphere and characters of "The Same."