THE MAFIA KILLS ONLY IN SUMMER

This Italian comedy-drama is insightful and showcases the activities of the Sicilian Mafia and its lingering effects on the local community.

Set in Palermo, Sicily, in the 1970’s, the story follows Arturo’s (Alex Disconti) escalating affections for neighbour and school friend Flora (Ginevra Antona) which ultimately develops into mutual love in their adult years.

The child actors deliver bright and delightful performances and the adult roles are charmingly portrayed by Pif (Arturo) and Cristina Capotondi (Flora).

This film is strangely but effectively complemented by the fusion of comedy and graphic violence. The underlying story of the mafia’s murderous prevalence as priests and law enforcers are being assassinated is terrifying and thought-provoking.

Actual newsreel footage displaying riotous demonstrations as concerned citizens were making desperate pleas to have this organized crime disintegrated adds credence to the film.

Movie-goers will cringe at the scenes of bloodshed, but the impact is softened by the ongoing humour. (MMo)

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