A Chiara

In Calabria, 16-year-old Chiara is preparing for her upcoming birthday party, unaware of the dark secrets surrounding her family. As the celebrations loom, she discovers her father's hidden life and connections to the local mafia, forcing her to confront a reality that shatters her idyllic world. Driven by a fierce determination, Chiara embarks on a dangerous path to uncover the truth and redefine her own identity amidst the ruins of her family.

A Chiara received widespread critical acclaim, praised for its authentic portrayal of a young woman's coming-of-age within the complex social fabric of Calabria. Critics lauded Jonas Carpignano's direction, the naturalistic performances, particularly from Swamy Rotolo, and the film's ability to blend intimate family drama with the pervasive influence of organized crime.

• A compelling and intimate look at a young woman's difficult journey to independence.

• Features a standout performance from Swamy Rotolo, capturing vulnerability and strength.

• Effectively uses neorealist techniques to explore themes of family, identity, and societal pressures.

Google audience: Audiences largely praised the film for its powerful storytelling and authentic portrayal of a young woman's struggle to find her own path. Many viewers found the performances, especially the lead actress, to be incredibly moving and relatable. The film's exploration of complex family dynamics within a specific cultural context resonated strongly with viewers.

Selected to compete in the Directors' Fortnight at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival.

The film is the third installment in Jonas Carpignano's trilogy set in the Calabrian town of Gioia Tauro, following 'Mediterranea' (2015) and 'A Ciambra' (2017).