THIS FILM IS BASED ON A TRUE STORY
THE 'NDARGHETA IS THE ONLY CRIMINAL ORGANISATION IN THE WORLD
PRESENT IN ALL FIVE CONTINENTS
WITH AN INCOME OF 53 BILLION EUROS PER YEAR.
FAMILY IS THE HEART OF THEIR CRIMINAL STRUCTURE
AND POWER IS ALWAYS HANDED DOWN FROM FATHER TO SON
VILLA SAN GIOVANNI, STRAIT OF MESSINA DECEMBER 24, 2006
Ferry for Messina leaving the pier.
Judge.
Giovanni!
- Are you taking the ferry too? - No.
Did you think on what I said?
Yes.
I think you're right, but…
But?
I want a job far from here.
Sure.
Ferry for Messina leaving the pier.
Listen, let's go to my office.
I can get you something this evening.
It's Christmas. I should be with my family.
You're right. Later then?
- After New Year? - Yes.
You're making the right choice.
You mustn't worry or get upset.
Trust me.
Goodbye.
Bye.
Ferry leaving.
Isn't he coming?
Of course he is.
But he didn't answer…
Come on, let's go! Ready?
We'll put this here.
Hi Mimmo, all the best.
Hi, Mimmo, all the best.
- All the best, Madam. - Thanks, Mimmo.
All for you, Madam.
Happy Christmas.
Eyes open, mind.
- Giovanni! - Giovanni!
I was scared you weren't coming!
Think I'd leave you alone?
Would that be right? On Christmas Eve?
We were waiting for you at home.
Come on, Mom.
I was at Reggio to get the last gifts.
- Who for? - Not you.
So what did you ask Santa for?
- A console. - A doll.
Saverio.
How are you?
All OK.
Come on, let's go.
Gosh, how long!
My dear.
Dad!
Let me see you.
Madonna!
You've grown!
And this princess?
- I missed you. - Me too.
Cover me in kisses.
Come, come, Domenico, look.
Look.
- Antonio, stop. - Enza. Come on.
You never saw this.
Here.
Get in my arms.
Antonio, that'll do. It's Christmas.
So? Put your hand here.
Your finger here, on the trigger.
Is it loaded?
Scared?
Shoot.
Teresa, come here.
Shoot.
Shoot, Domenico.
Shoot, come on!
My son!
- Dad… - Well?
- Nothing.
- Are you OK? - Fine, Dad.
- Sure? - Yes.
- Give me your hands. - Hey, go with Dad.
And who knows what's there?
What? What?
- The crib! - I did it.
- Beautiful. - Really.
- Then Santa came! - The gifts! Domenico…
It says Domenico. This is mine!
Open everything!
Let's see.
Mom, it's just what I wanted!
- It's beautiful! - See?
And you, let's see.
The console!
Santa guessed and he's great!
Domenico! And this is the other game for you.
No, no. Toys later, we'll eat now.
- Oh, Dad! No! Please! - Domenico, sit there.
And you there, dear.
Maybe I didn't explain!
There you are!
How nice!
- It's good! - Is it?
- It's fantastic! - Shall we start with this?
Hand me your plate.
GOOD EVENING
Giovanni, get out of here.
Get out of here.
Pull, pull!
Pull! You get out of here!
Move. Shit, the kids! You move!
Domenico, move! Pull, pull!
- Close. close! - Sit!
Sit!
- Mom, I'm scared… - Everything will be fine!
Stop! Carabinieri!
To the left, to the right! Go on!
Hands up!
- Where is he? Where did he go? - It's clear!
Understand what I said? Tell me where he went!
Where?
- Check behind the walls! - There's something here!
Out. Get out of that wardrobe! Go on!
Move the kid and woman! Shift it! Move the kid.
Shift it! Move it!
Watch out! Watch out!
You bastard!
Man down! Bastard!
Hello?
It's impossible.
Yes, yes. OK, I'm coming.
Marco!
- What's up? - Giovanni.
Giovanni?
Giovanni.
Thanks.
Judge. Did I ruin your Christmas?
Never mind that.
What did you get up to?
It's my father.
I had to save him.
It's no one's fault.
It's my fault.
I shouldn't've let you go.
My only mistake was coming to find you.
I don't believe you think that.
It hurts!
What do you know of my life?
Then you explain.
- Do you really want to help me? - Yes.
Then don't come back.
Search among the books.
Check there!
There's nothing here.
Nor here.
Mr Dente.
We'll confiscate these.
Lieutenant.
No, no! What are you doing? It's our money! We saved it.
Madam, if it's yours, you can have it back.
Enza, drop it.
When I'm grown up, I won't be like Mom.
I won't let them in…
Don't worry. When I'm grown, I'll protect you.
PENAL COURT -CORTE D'ASSISE ACCUSED: TRIPODI ANTONIO
REGGIO CALABRIA COURT OF APPEAL
MAXI KIDNAPPING AT GIOIA TAURO PORT
Giovanni!
Why did you bring them too?
Sit down.
Let me kiss you…
Over there we left you all the good things you like.
Sit, Domenico.
Domenico, sit.
Well?
How are you?
I'm fine, Mom. Don't worry.
You two are behaving, right?
When will you come home?
Soon.
Can I stay here with you?
No.
Give me your hand, Domenico.
Domenico.
Give me your hand.
Give your brother your hand.
Oh, hello.
- I'm glad you came. - What do you want from me?
Just to talk. Won't you sit?
Come on. Sit there.
Can you help me with Giovanni? That's why you called?
No, Madam. Giovanni is of age now, other magistrates will judge him.
Maybe you could speak with the judges?
You know him! He's a good boy, they'll listen to you.
I can't do anything more for your son.
Then what do you want from me?
- Recognize him? - Sure.
It's my husband.
We found it in our archive.
He was 16 when they arrested him as an accomplice to kidnapping.
And then…
The other brother, Gioacchino…
Before they killed him.
He passed here too.
And the brother Pietro, before they imprisoned him for life
and the grandchildren and son Giovanni.
That's enough!
They all passed us,
arrested young or wanted or killed or arrested old.
Know what it means?
You don't choose 'ndrangheta, you inherit it.
It reached your husband and his grandchildren,
your in-laws,
your son Giovanni…
And one day them too.
How dare you?
Who are you to tell me how to bring up my children?
You must take them away immediately,
as soon as possible as far away as possible.
I'll see to them myself.
We've nothing more to say to each other, don't call for me again!
Domenico!
Come on.
Internal communication, Lucia to desk number one.
Domenico.
Go get yourself an ice cream.
- Me too, Mom. - No, no, Teresa. You stay with me.
- Alone? - Yes. What could happen?
Go, we'll wait for you here, that's it.
Domenico!
Dad!
Sit.
How do you want your ice cream? Pistachio as always?
Chocolate and cream.
Sorry.
Open your hands.
- How many fingers in a hand? - Five.
Five? Like us?
And what is it if I close it?
- A fist. - A fist.
Strong and ready to strike.
Can you strike? Yes? Show me.
Hey! And what's this?
Stronger! Stronger!
There.
This is us. You understand, Domenico?
Wow! It's like yours, Dad…
Domenico…
You're the man of the house now,
there's Mom and your sister,
who is to look after them?
Me, I'll do it.
Yes.
And you know what that means, Domenico?
You must grow up quickly.
Can you grow up quickly?
Can you? Yes?
Greetings, friend.
To you.
I'm glad you came.
Greetings.
Sit.
Well, Canadese, what's up?
The irritant stopped barking. At Vancouver everything's ready.
Sure we can trust each other?
We're talking about lots of money.
I swear on Saint Archangel Michael
my cousin won't sell a gram without your blessing.
Well, Domenico?
What do you think?
I spoke to my father.
In Canada with a family like yours, always friends,
we'll triple the amount.
We can all earn something.
Bravo.
This is for you, your father sends it.
- Thank you. - Please.
I've been calling Teresa all day, but no answer.
- Your sister's strange. - That's how she is.
You'll see, when you marry, it'll sort her out.
- I'll take that. - No, I'll hold it.
Let's go, Mirko.
POLICE
Stop! Down!
Hands up.
Head down.
Head down!
POLICE
I've something to say!
Shall we all go together?
What's up?
Teresa! It's Domenico!
What are you doing?
What are you up to?
- Domenico, what's up? - Nothing, go.
Teresa, go home.
Teresa.
- Teresa. - Where are you going?
Come here, Teresa.
Hello.
- Sir. - Hello.
Do sit there.
There, next to me.
Here we are.
President, we want the cautionary measures revoked.
It's really too much.
I remember you…
Yes, we met, but you were still a child.
I have nothing to do with that bag.
How come you had it?
Mirko and I were wandering,
we found it on the ground and were taking it to the Carabinieri.
And when the Carabinieri came to you, you lost trust.
Right, bravo.
You are always suspicious.
You pursue us until we're afraid.
Come, I'll show you something…
I did this ten years ago.
They're the same photos you showed my mother.
I remember.
And this is new…
Yours.
President, you've still to pass sentence.
And if I take the other Reggio families, it's the same.
Grandfathers, fathers, sons all passing here.
Know what it means?
None of you decide anything.
Not even you.
You act tough in here,
but outside you let others decide for you.
You're not free.
President.
If you must sentence me then do it,
but don't preach,
I can go to church for that, and they're better.
Giovanni.
Judge!
Remember me?
You're the same, apart from some white hairs.
Judge is a good job…
What should I do? Leave like last time, or can we talk?
It depends what you want…
I need advice, sit.
It's my next case.
He's 17,
his father was a fugitive since he was three,
his uncle was killed when he was one,
three cousins under hard prison regime
a fourth killed when he was still a boy in the '90s…
His brother has been imprisoned for ten years with eight left to do.
What did Domenico do?
Not much, yet.
But though he's just a boy,
it's his turn to take the family reins.
What do you want from me?
Talk to him…
Tell him the truth,
you came to me ten years ago,
you almost managed to go.
Almost?
Judge, we remember differently.
I better go… Agent!
Giovanni.
Giovanni, why?
- He's your brother. - Agent!
Want him to end up like you?
Agent!
Giovanni!
You must understand what I say well. Domenico.
Then there is a concept of law,
there are judges and Carabinieri, right?
And there's a concept of family.
- Do you follow me, Domenico? Following? - Yes, Dad.
Family never turns directly to law, no!
Family takes the law into its own hands.
Marco.
It's two in the morning, won't you come to bed?
Do you want to take Domenico Tripodi away from his family?
Listen…
When the teacher talks to you about mafia or 'ndrangheta,
you can't listen, because I tell you what family is.
If someone does you wrong
I won't go call the Carabinieri to say they did my son wrong.
No! I'll take them and kill them with my hands…
Domenico and his father hacked in 2004.
It's terrible.
But this was always 'ndrangheta upbringing.
We removed children from violent, addicted parents
to offer them another possibility.
Why didn't we do the same with these youngsters?
We can't condemn them to a life of pain!
You're right.
But it's also painful for a boy to be torn from those he loves.
That's all he has.
- There's us. - Who?
Us. The State.
Happen to have a family ready to host them?
Tell me how you alone
can defeat hate and hostility going on for generations?
Well…
You mean I have to just watch, again?
I just think you're alone and the work is too complicated.
And you're too tired for it.
Let's go to bed! Come on.
I'm coming.
President…
President!
Aren't you going home tonight?
- No. Not yet, goodnight. - Goodnight.
PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE
DECREE
JUSTICE MINISTRY MINOR DEPARTMENT -INITIAL WELCOMING CENTER
Reggio Calabria court for minors
considering article 530 of the penal procedure code
decrees that
the accused Tripodi Domenico is released from all charges
for not committing the acts.
But as the minor in question gave rise
to manifestations of irregular conduct and character,
culminating in consorting with previous offenders…
And his mother appears unfit to contain his dangerousness,
as demonstrated by the fate of the other son…
The terrible picture reported and the brother's experience
thus lead the court to consider it indispensable
to entrust the minor to the social services
to place him in a region other than Calabria
until he reaches 18 years of age.
Can you do that? No!
You can't!
You can't, I'm his mother! How am I unfit?
Lawyer!
Well, sir? Well?
- What is all this? - I don't know.
What's up?
Let me study the papers and we can certainly appeal.
Appeal? I must talk to the judge immediately.
- We'll go now. - Don't worry, Mom's here. OK?
- You must let me pass. - You can't pass.
I'm the mother, I must talk to the judge.
- Mom! - Madam…
Well find a solution.
They can't do it, can they?
How dare you?
Who are you to take my son away?
Madam, I'm just a judge, I trust the law.
I didn't know it's law for an innocent boy
to be taken from his mother!
But the measure is not against you, it's to safeguard your son.
I just want Domenico to have a life…
Better than what he's had so far.
You want to ruin us!
You won't!
We'll make it bad for you! Bad!
We'll go now.
Bad!
It's not over, President, we'll report to the High Council of the Judiciary.
You may, it's your right.
Domenico, come here.
Domenico.
Is everything OK?
How can it be?
This shitty judge!
We should kill the bastard.
What does "out of Calabria" mean?
At least that doesn't mean prison like Giovanni.
What the Hell? Prison gets me respect.
But at least like that we can see each other… talk…
Ah, talk!
Isn't that great?
Domenico, don't be like that.
Don't tell me what to do, you understand?
I'm not your son! You can shut up!
Teresa.
Can you come help, please? Lay the table.
Come on! Speaking in the rain…
- Hi. - Gaetano.
Let's go out, there's no air here!
Now I'll show you…
Here!
"Antimafia and child hunting."
"Is it right to take children from mafia mothers?"
And here's my favorite.
"There is no such thing as deportation for good purposes."
Marco… this measure is mad. You know that, right?
Even the North papers went for you.
I've all legal support on my side.
Article two from the Italian constitution
and New York Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Sure.
This is a Reggio Calabria seafront, not Manhattan.
There's no money, personnel, experience!
As long as these youths are in Calabria, they'll never be free.
Their families are their condemnation…
Their families are our condemnation.
It's late, I'm going to work.
Good day.
Marco!
We've worked together for 20 years.
And you know I like you
and don't want to go to your funeral.
ROLE: DEFENDANT ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF FIREARM
TRIBUNAL OF REGGIO CALABRIA
This is Domenico…
And this is his family.
SHOT DEAD AT NIGHT GIOACCHINO TRIPODI
MAXI KIDNAPPING AT GIOIA TAURO PORT
People never get bored of this.
Is it still around?
What do you say?
After I spent days searching for a family in custody at Messina,
what'll I do, give up?
I must ask you for another miracle.
You're a fine social assistant,
but we'll need a psychologist too.
We've no funds to pay him…
And that's why I asked you for the miracle.
- Oh, you don't knock? - Not in my house!
Go help Mom with lunch.
I'll finish the chapter and go.
What's up? You're always with books.
Go out, go round with Gaetano!
What did I say?
Did you argue?
Well?
The marriage…
The closer it gets, the more I'm afraid.
Afraid? You?
I'm not sure I want it.
We gave our word. You don't change your mind.
- Did we? Who? - Dad and I.
- And you're marrying Gaetano? - Will you answer me?
We already have a lot of problems, Teresa,
we don't need yours too!
Huh?
Hello, Maria.
- Thanks, Rosa. - Hello.
- Hello! - Hello, Sir.
- Hello. - Hello.
This is Enrico, the psychologist.
He's very good, and happy to help for free.
Very happy, of course.
- Thank you. - It's nothing.
Who knows how many job offers after this gets on my CV!
Please, please sit down.
And the family for custody? I thought you were coming with them.
They're no longer available…
Now you tell me!
We just heard.
They said no, they don't feel like it anymore.
Ah, we'll find another.
I already tried, there aren't any.
But there's a community ready to welcome Domenico,
he'd be with other boys.
No.
Domenico needs a family.
There isn't one, Sir.
OK, we'll be his family.
Ah yes, we'll do more overtime.
Like we always did.
Not convinced?
OK, then we'll drop Domenico and intervene with another case.
- We'll wait. - No.
We can't.
I did that with your brother Giovanni and still regret it.
We must go on.
All these years I understood one thing,
despite millions in the bank, luxury cars and power
in 'ndrangheta it is a bad life
and that goes for everyone, boys, women and even bosses.
We'll show them the possibility of a better life.
We'll make them see one can be free and Domenico will follow us.
Does the boy know he's unhappy?
No…
Not yet.
What does the email I got mean? It's impossible!
Suddenly all the province's social assistants got ill!
President, they're scared!
No one wants to go and bring Domenico to their home, what can we do?
What to do? I know what to do.
Cops!
Cops, run!
Cops!
It's the cops!
- It's the cops! - Cops!
Good day. We are the police.
What the Hell are you doing here? The cops now?
Let's go, Domenico, we'll get your things ready.
Keep calm, do what they say.
- Let's go. - Domenico…
- What a shame! - Three cars, one boy!
What a shame!
WE BLESS YOU AND YOUR CITY
We've arrived. It's Messina.
Yes, OK. OK, fine.
Welcome.
Domenico's papers.
Shall we enter?
This is Sebastian.
Hi.
This is Ciro.
This is the kitchen.
And here's where you have lunch, it's the common zone.
That's Mahmud and Cristian, you'll meet them later.
Let's go to your room…
This is your bed.
Are there no single rooms?
In this initial period we think you should be with other boys.
Sort your stuff out later. Come here, we'll chat.
What do you want from me?
For now, as you won't have had lunch, I brought you these.
Ah, that's how you make boys good. With sweets.
No, we won't make you good.
Just answer one question honestly.
What do you want to do?
Go home!
You know you can't now. Maybe soon.
Now let's think what to do here, hm?
School or sport.
Maybe one day Enrico can take you to the sea for a trip…
You can decide what to do.
I want to be alone!
BEACH CROSSINGS
I don't know what to do, dear.
I'm alone, Antonio…
First Giovanni, now Domenico!
Domenico is a man.
He knows he's to do as he's told.
We just leave him?
- What about the judge? - The judge..
I'll see to him, but Domenico can't muck about,
the better he behaves, the sooner he's back.
But we need him to get a permit,
I have to talk to him,
he must know we're here and the family is united.
- Understand, Enza? - Yes. Sure.
And you?
Won't you say hi?
No kiss for your father, nothing?
Who are you?
The fairest of them all?
Listen, preparations for the wedding, they're going well, right?
Dad…
What's up, dear?
Nothing…
I love you, Dad.
Time's pressing…
Now Domenico's away, the marriage is even more important.
Understand, Teresa?
Yes?
Yes, or no?
Open this bag,
then you can take some treat out.
You'll smile again, it's better!
- Bye, my dear. - Bye, Antonio.
Hi!
You're the new one?
- Mahmud. - Domenico.
Cristian.
- How come they sent you here? - I was a bit stressed.
- But you're not Sicilian. - So?
Easy, I was just saying.
Then don't.
Don't say anything.
You've a lot of stuff though.
I said I dislike nosey parkers.
Drop it.
It went alright.
Now your father will see to it,
we'll get Domenico get a permit
and then think of nice things, right, Teresa?
Your dress will be fine.
There'll be a big party, you'll see.
Mom.
How did you know you loved Dad?
How?
It's not something you can explain…
I just did.
I was young when I met him,
he was 19 but a man and I felt so important with him.
I didn't want anyone else.
And then?
Nothing, then you were born.
And here we are.
- Did you have the life you wanted? - Does anyone?
I know what you're getting at,
but I don't have a problem with your father and I don't regret it.
All we have is thanks to him.
He was never there, Mom!
I don't even remember a life with Dad here.
Eh, but it was OK while he was there.
Leaving hurt him more than us.
And Giovanni? How hurt is he?
The Giovanni story was awful…
I'm not sure I even want a family with such things for my son.
Fine, but Gaetano is a good guy and you'll see he'll watch out.
What could I do, Teresa?
Take you away?
With what money?
Away from Calabria we're nothing.
I was told to explain to you how things work.
- I don't feel like it. - You're telling me!
- Come on, it'll take a moment. - Understand when I talk to you?
Yes, but how's Domenico now?
Too early to say.
Is that an elegant way to tell me things are going badly?
He's hostile, doesn't eat, hardly sleeps
and can't get on with anyone, us or the others.
He's used to commanding. It can't be easy for him.
See you're agreeing? It takes time.
How much?
- Think we're getting it all wrong? - No.
I think we mustn't rush.
Yes, but if it doesn't go well, tell me and I'll go back,
I won't experiment on the boy.
- Clear? - Yes.
Hey…
It's 3, shall we go out?
No.
- Did you eat? - No.
- Ah, get up! - Do I need too?
Come on, let's go.
Ah come on, let's go.
MAGNIFICATE DOMINIUM MECUM
There's even a high school here, if you like, we'll check it out.
- Nice! - What?
- They're smoking dope. - Want to report them?
I have to say they can't?
- Santino, my fish? - There, it's 8 euro.
- Put it on the tab, Santino. - I always do…
Let me understand…
You push cocaine and preach to people who take dope?
- What's the connection? - That's work.
- Ah, work. - OK, you can't get it.
I do agree.
- Hello! - Hello!
Do you never want a change? Look around.
I don't care, I'm not even from Messina.
Sure.
Like if you fixed that swing, no one would know it was you?
Want the satisfaction of doing something nice for others?
Like you with me?
I'm your swing?
That's why you don't get paid, it makes you feel better.
No, friend, it's because there's no money.
Or I'd take it.
I like clean money, it's dishonest money I look down on.
No, no, sorry!
What the Hell are you doing, you dick?
I just touched you, I lost balance so…
- It's nothing. - Look what a dent you left.
You'll pay now.
If that's how you feel, we'll have a friendly dispute because there are…
Sod that! I want the money right now.
How much? I've 20…
It's 300 euro.
It's 300? I don't have it.
You better go.
You're mad though, Domenico! Mad!
Don't think this is the way to act
and he could've been bigger than you
and armed, how could you know?
There are rules to respect, you can't act like that.
You must be careful. What're you doing?
I'll drive.
Thanks anyway, Domenico…
Sure you'll drive?
Because if you can… Slowly though!
There's traffic.
Nice and slow! Domenico, slow.
Dear!
It's late, I'm off.
- The little one? - Yes, everything's OK.
I prepared fruit for when he awakes, OK?
- Is everything alright? - Yes.
- OK, bye. - Bye.
Hi everyone!
- Fine, you can go. - OK.
- How was it, then? - Great.
Great.
Domenico, sit.
I prepared you a list with some proposals…
School, theater, canteen for the poor, volunteer with kids?
- Can't you choose for me? - No.
Domenico! Go to the kitchen.
- Is it eating time already? - No, preparing time!
What's that to do with me?
It's your turn to prepare tonight, Domenico.
We do shifts here.
- Hungry, guys? - Very!
I haven't eaten for three days.
Domenico, is there a problem?
Thoughts…
What thoughts, Domenico?
I don't understand why you're so worried about me.
I've a family and all I need, you don't!
Sure?
And where's the State you go on about?
It doesn't pay him or care about what the Judge does.
And you…
I'm a poor wreck with the same car for ten years!
I see, you can stop.
At yours, are you free to say all you think like you do here with us?
What's that got to do with it?
A lot, and you know.
When you think of it, write me what you'll do.
- Domenico, well? Are you coming? - Come on, that's it.
Of course he's coming, we're all hungry. All to the kitchen, come on.
Goal!
- Can you cook? - How hard is to prepare pasta?
- Ah, I just put water to boil… - I'll do it.
- How is it here? - I think we'll diet tonight.
- Let me. - It's my shift.
And I'll get you something to eat.
There, eat.
It's the best dinner since I came to Italy!
- Sure, you came here a week ago! - Less than a week!
If you want, I'll teach you to cook next time.
You? You poisoned us up to yesterday.
It was all good.
So, I'll cook tomorrow then?
Domenico. Come here a moment.
- Take this. - Give me a bit.
Hi, Domenico.
What do you want?
I see you're settling in.
I can't wait to go… like the first day.
I'm not here to give you good news.
Giovanni isn't well.
What's up?
They're taking him to hospital.
He tried to kill himself.
Listen…
Why don't you visit him?
You'll let me go to him?
If you want to.
Yes, sure.
- I'll wait for you here. - Yes.
TRANSFUSION CENTER
ANALYSIS LABORATORY
Giovanni…
Domenico.
What did you do?
Nothing…
I didn't want to kill myself, just change air.
It's the only way if you're in there.
There's only six years left.
- It's not much. - Six years.
You do it.
You're right, sorry.
How's it at Messina?
Fine.
Giovanni, what must I do?
What you want, Domenico.
But Dad needs you.
Isn't what he asked you for enough?
What the hell?
He never asked me for anything!
Did they brainwash you?
Look into my eyes.
Do you love Dad?
Does he love us?
Sorry.
Now go, Domenico…
Go.
I don't want to get used to your presence.
Want them?
No…
Think you're stronger than me?
Domenico.
Oh, Domenico.
Listen to this great bit.
Guys!
Look what he has.
Domenico, shit, what are you doing with these?
- What the fuck do you care? - Hey, calm down!
Hey, stop.
Calm down!
Can you tell me what's up?
Don't be afraid to talk.
You can, in fact must say everything.
And you? To me?
You tell me everything?
What don't we tell you?
That I'm your trophy, judge!
If I go to you, you look good!
You think you're unlike my family, but you're the same…
You use me.
Is that why you stuff yourself with drugs?
Secretly?
No.
I took them before too, everyone does at mine,
didn't your informers tell you?
They help us survive…
At our homes you never sleep like in others'!
Someone just feels like pursuing these asshole Mafia
then we're all out of bed at 3 a.m.
And our, we don't talk because the rooms could be full of bugs,
and you don't cry on the phone, because there's always some cop listening
and if your dad's on the other side you have to speak to him differently.
You can't call him "Dad"…
Or he'll get arrested and it's your fault…
Though I was only five.
- Can we come up? - Yes, yes, do go.
He shouldn't have done it, we'll see to this now, go.
He's not well.
I never saw him like this.
Maybe you were right, Maria, and we should have waited.
No, he's starting to feel,
anger, fear, sadness, as you wanted.
He's assuming the right to be wrong…
And growing, like all guys.
A triumph, really!
Think we're on another planet?
Maybe a bit, but it's fine, let's go on.
Come on, guys, let's go now.
Come on, let's go.
Come on, Domenico, let's go, hey.
- No, no, no… - Guys.
- Let's go home, it's enough. - No…
- Let's have a dip. - You're mad!
- Come on. - Mad!
- Guys, it's so cold! - They'll get pneumonia!
Guys, it's very cold!
- It'll get you! - School's shit, anyway!
Domenico, come!
Domenico, come for a dip, that's it.
Move, come down, the water's nice!
Come on, dive in, Domenico!
Come in the water.
Come, Domenico, the water's fine!
Come on, Domenico!
Come on, then!
TO STUDY
Let's find a good school immediately.
Can't I study at home?
Won't you try to meet new guys?
Why? I'll soon be 18 and go.
How do you know? You might make friends here and change your mind.
Doctor.
My mother's alone, whatever happens here, I'll go home.
Fine. Then we'll say home study is very boring.
We'll find a class.
Will my classmates know who I am?
Here you're just Domenico.
Then if you want to be timid, cheery, pleasant, unpleasant, studious…
You decide.
You're free to choose and even change,
if you want to be different.
Oh, come, let's eat!
Come on, out of my place!
Let me eat, hey!
Hey, come on.
Hey, let's eat!
- Take the pasta… - Who wants pasta?
That's fine.
Excuse me, Madam, does the Tripodi family live here?
Here.
- Sit down. - Thanks.
I hope I'm not disturbing you.
Not at all.
I just don't see what you want from us.
Domenico is about to be 18 and leave Messina.
What will you do to help him, Madam?
Domenico always did as he liked… He'll continue to.
I won't interfere in his choices.
Domenico's or your husband's?
You're his mother, you love each other, Domenico listens to you.
He needs to know he's not alone, you're on his side.
Madam, you know that if your son remains here, he'll end up like Giovanni?
Or your husband.
Enough of that.
I'm a mother too.
Think it's easy for me to come here and say this?
Think I can't imagine how you feel?
But I'm also thinking of Domenico, Madam.
Is everything OK here?
Yes.
Yes, Gaetano.
Will you make me a coffee?
Is the Madam staying much longer?
- I was going. - I'll go with you.
- Bye. - Bye.
Well?
- The coffee? - You make it.
It's no time to be childish. There's a mess.
A big mess.
- Hey, move. - Wait a moment.
- I need it. - Let him…
- What the Hell do you want? - Let him…
TEN ARRESTED FOR ARMS AND DRUGS TRAFFICKING
- Maria. - Hi, Domenico.
My Gran's ill.
I never asked you for anything, but now I must go back home.
Can you get me a certificate?
Sure, I'll bring you a medical one.
- OK, but come back tonight. - OK, perfect, bye.
Domenico.
Let's go immediately.
- Shall we pass by home? - No time.
How long did you take?
- I came right away. - Sorry, but there's a mess here…
Dad?
Safe for now, but living underground,
with no more men to cover him he can't go on much more.
Come on, let's go.
Your sister's always nervous.
It's good she's now getting a diploma so at least she'll calm down.
Why bother with books when you're marrying, eh?
Dad.
Come. Mind your head.
Go there.
Want a coffee?
I can't offer you more.
Anyway time is short so we better use it.
Domenico, you must go to Reggio Calabria with Gaetano.
There's a small bar at the port, Canadese expects you there,
there's a gift for us at the latrines, get it and bring me it here.
But I must go back to Messina.
You will.
But tomorrow,
I already talked to the lawyer, then everything will sort out.
Today you must think of the family.
What's up, Domenico? Do you still care about us?
Yes, I do…
Can't someone else?
Domenico…
There are times we can only do things alone, ourselves.
Have you forgotten the day they arrested Giovanni?
Your brother's still in there.
There are blocked accounts, confiscated flats…
One mistake and we lose everything, you see?
OK.
OK, yes!
How's the wedding going?
- It's all ready. - Thank Heaven.
I'll help you, Dad.
No, leave it…
Leave it.
My children…
You grew.
You're the future.
But I, here, on these mountains,
I'm the past.
But I'm here. See?
I won't leave you.
I'll watch over you.
- Domenico… - What happened?
- Are you OK? - Yes, yes.
I don't want to live like Mom and you don't want to live like Dad.
Let's go.
We'll run away together.
We can't do anything, don't act mad.
We can't.
You're so thin, did they feed you in Sicily?
A bit too much.
How did it go with your dad?
Fine.
Sure?
He was quite tired, but we'll solve everything now.
Don't worry.
Mom!
Mom.
Do you know what Dad asked him for?
Quiet.
Is this all you can do for him, Mom?
I must think of everyone.
I've Domenico, but also your father and Giovanni.
And if Domenico goes to jail too, what do they get?
- Why say that? - Because it's what always happens!
But Domenico is OK.
If your dad asked him, it means there's no risk,
what don't you understand?
Domenico…
The number you have dialed…
Ferry for Messina leaving from the pier.
FROM ENRICO: PLEASE ANSWER!!!
Put your hand here, come on.
Hello?
What?
What do you mean, he's disappeared?
PRIVATE
What are you doing, Teresa?
Are you scared of me?
Scared of your mother?
Is it over now?
You'll leave me alone?
Let's go together.
Come with me!
Where? Where do you want to go?
Who'll have you, the judge?
And we're not men who can shoot
and we aren't sorry they get people arrested.
What are we for?
Take this.
I don't want it.
Don't be silly.
Mom…
I love Dad.
I know.
Free information, the number you have dialed…
What will we do, Judge? Go home?
It's almost 2 a.m.
We'll wait a bit more.
THE ISLAND OF THE SUN
Will you at least tell us you're OK?
No. I am not.
I used to be strong, now I'm weak.
I used to know what to do, now I only doubt!
I used to be unable to laugh, now I always want to cry.
I used to like myself,
now I don't know myself.
But you're free now. Finally you can choose.
Then I want to go, judge!
Far from Calabria.
I want to disappear…
Go where no one is looking for me!
Not my father or you.
Will you help me?
Yes…
- Of course we will. - Yes, Domenico.
You got so thin!
But you must eat.
I left you lasagne and pastries, eat them now or they'll go off.
- Understand? - Mom.
Yes?
Why cook so much?
What else have I to do?
At least it occupies me. The more I move, the less I think.
You could get a new life.
My life is with you and Dad,
and there's nowhere else for me.
Mom.
You've two other children.
I'll stay as long as you're here.
Didn't Maria come?
She had a hitch, a problem, she says sorry but hi.
OK… Enjoy your trip.
Judge…
Domenico?
What are you doing, going without telling us?
Oh, Domenico is leaving! Come!
- There are two more hours. - Then let's eat together.
- OK, we'll eat. - Won't you let us have some fun?
Ah, let's eat.
It came. Here's the ticket.
Look, put it here.
It's platform one. Enjoy your trip.
No, I don't like farewells, I get moved.
- Platform one. - Yes, one.
Go, go there.
Domenico!
BARILLA FAMILY
REGGIO CALABRIA COURT OF APPEAL,
JUDGE LO BIANCO, ACCUSED GIUSEPPE BARILLA
- Hello. - Hello.
- Are you Judge Lo Bianco? - Yes, I am.
Do sit down.
Is what they write true?
I take guys out of Calabria, but don't deport them.
What if the children are young and the mother wants to follow?
We find a solution.
Do sit down.
SINCE 2012, THE MINORS TRIBUNAL OF REGGIO CALABRIA MOVED 40 MINORS
DESTINED FOR 'NDRANGHETA FROM THE REGION.
THEY AGAIN STUDIED, WENT OUT AND DREAMED,
LIKE THOSE OF THEIR AGE, FINALLY FREE TO CHOOSE.
THE JUDGE AND HIS COLLABORATORS ARE NO LONGER ON THEIR OWN.
LIBERA ASSOCIATION, THE ITALIAN INTERIOR AND JUSTICE MINISTRY,
THE DEPARTMENT OF EQUAL OPPORTUNITY,
THE NATIONAL ANTIMAFIA OFFICE
AND THE ITALIAN EPISCOPAL CONFERENC WORK WITH THEM.
LOTS OF MOTHERS DECIDED TO FOLLOW THEIR SONS