The Ciambra

In the impoverished Ciambra community, a Roma settlement in Calabria, Italy, Pio is a young boy who idolizes his older brother Cosimo. Despite his youth, Pio yearns to prove himself and desperately wants to join the adults in their criminal activities. When Cosimo disappears amidst a drug deal gone wrong, Pio is thrust into a dangerous world where he must navigate loyalty, betrayal, and the harsh realities of his community to survive and find his place.

The Ciambra received widespread critical acclaim, particularly for its authentic portrayal of the Roma community and its compelling, neorealist approach to storytelling. Critics praised director Jonas Carpignano's ability to immerse the audience in the lives of his subjects, highlighting the raw performances and the film's unflinching look at poverty, prejudice, and the struggle for identity. It was recognized for its cinematic artistry and its sensitive yet direct examination of a marginalized group.

• Praised for its authentic and immersive depiction of Roma life in Southern Italy.

• Lauded for its powerful, neorealist storytelling and compelling performances.

• Recognized for its sensitive exploration of social issues like poverty and prejudice.

Google audience: Audiences generally found 'The Ciambra' to be a powerful and realistic film, appreciating its authentic portrayal of a marginalized community and its compelling narrative. Many viewers were moved by the performances and the film's raw, unvarnished look at life in Calabria.

World Cinema Dramatic Special Jury Award for Directing at Sundance Film Festival 2017.

Director Jonas Carpignano cast non-professional actors from the actual Ciambra community, including the young protagonist Pio Amato, whose own life experiences heavily influenced the film's narrative.