by InTrieste
Gabriele Salvatores’ latest cinematic venture, Napoli-New York, opens in theaters across Italy today. The film, which draws inspiration from an original story by Federico Fellini and Tullio Pinelli, blends historical drama with heartfelt storytelling.
The journey of Napoli-New York began in May of last year, with much of the filming taking place in Trieste. The movie marks Salvatores’ sixth project shot in Friuli Venezia Giulia, a region increasingly central to Italian cinema, thanks in part to the support of the Friuli Venezia Giulia Film Commission – PromoTurismoFVG.
The film had its premiere in Milan on Wednesday night, where it received an emotional response from audiences and prolonged applause. Salvatores described his work as “a great film,” while actress Anna Ammirati likened it to “the scent of freshly baked cookies—the kind made by grandmothers or mothers, always the best.”
A Journey Across the Atlantic
Based on an unproduced story by Fellini and Pinelli, Napoli-New York tells the tale of Carmine and Celestina, two children navigating the challenges of the postwar period. Played by young actors Dea Lanzaro and Antonio Guerra, the children undertake a clandestine transatlantic journey to seek a brighter future. Their journey is guided by a compassionate ship’s officer, portrayed by the acclaimed Pierfrancesco Favino.
The film boasts an international cast, including Anna Ammirati, Tomas Arana, Omar Benson Miller, and Antonio Catania, and explores universal themes of hope, resilience, and the pursuit of a better life.
Trieste as New York
Salvatores transformed Trieste into mid-century New York City using a combination of practical sets and special effects. Iconic locations in Trieste, such as Palazzo Carciotti, Porto Vecchio, and Stazione Marittima, served as backdrops, seamlessly blending into the cinematic narrative.
The production also delivered an economic boost to the region, engaging over 60 local crew members and contributing an estimated €1.9 million to the local economy.
A Personal Touch
To celebrate the film’s release, Salvatores will embark on a tour to present Napoli-New York and meet with audiences. He is scheduled to appear in Udine on Saturday, November 30, and in Trieste on Sunday, December 1.
With its evocative storytelling, talented cast, and a nostalgic tribute to the Italian diaspora, Napoli-New York is a poignant reminder of cinema’s power to transport audiences across time and space. It also reaffirms Trieste’s growing role as a vibrant hub for international filmmaking.
For more information, watch the official trailer or explore behind-the-scenes images.
