The Hidden Review attended the premiere of NERO, a powerful new film written by Giovanni Esposito, Valentina Farinaccio, and Francesco Prisco. The film is produced by Bartleby Film, Run Film, Pepito Produzioni, and Rai Cinema.
Directed by Giovanni Esposito—who also plays the lead role—NERO tells the story of two siblings living on the margins of society between Mondragone and Castel Volturno. Alongside Esposito, the remarkable Susy Del Giudice stars as his sister, Imma. The ensemble cast also includes Anbeta Toromani, Giovanni Calcagno, Peppe Lanzetta, Roberto De Francesco, Cristina Donadio, Alessandro Haber, Marius Bizau, Riccardo Ciccarelli, Emmanuel Dabone, Gennaro Di Biase, and Vittorio Ciorcalo.
The story begins with a robbery gone wrong. Nero (Esposito), a small-time criminal, accidentally shoots a shop employee. As he approaches the man with unexpected compassion, a miracle occurs—his touch heals the dying victim. From that moment on, Nero discovers he possesses the supernatural ability to heal others. But each miracle comes with a cost: he begins to lose one of his five senses. After his first act of healing, he realizes he can no longer feel touch—confirmed when he burns his hands on a pot of boiling water without sensing pain.
Living in desperation, Nero turns to crime not out of malice, but necessity. He’s trying to care for his disabled sister, Imma, who lives with a rare form of autism. With no access to steady employment, stealing becomes his only option—until his mysterious gift forces him to confront who he is and what he’s willing to sacrifice.
One of the most unforgettable aspects of the film is Susy Del Giudice’s performance as Imma. Without uttering a single line, she delivers a masterclass in non-verbal storytelling. Her gestures and expressions carry immense emotional weight, never falling into caricature or imitation. She embodies the character with sensitivity and truth, fully embracing the principle of “show, don’t tell.”
NERO explores deep existential themes: sacrifice, redemption, survival, mysticism, and humanity. The film asks a profound question—what are we willing to lose to help others? Each miracle Nero performs strips him of something vital, turning the story into a powerful allegory for the quiet sacrifices made in everyday life. Through its emotional weight, poetic realism, and spiritual metaphors, the screenplay navigates human fragility with depth and honesty.
NERO explores deep existential themes: sacrifice, redemption, survival, mysticism, and humanity. The film asks a profound question—what are we willing to lose to help others? Each miracle Nero performs strips him of something vital, turning the story into a powerful allegory for the quiet sacrifices made in everyday life. Through its emotional weight, poetic realism, and spiritual metaphors, the screenplay navigates human fragility with depth and honesty.
Visually, the film is elevated by the brilliant work of Daniele Ciprì as Director of Photography. His lens captures both the gritty realism and surreal lyricism that define NERO’s unique tone. Every frame reflects the director’s vision with precision and atmosphere.
Giovanni Esposito, in his triple role as writer, director, and actor, showcases remarkable talent and restraint. His direction is sensitive yet bold, harmonizing contrasting elements—crime and mysticism, suffering and grace—into a cohesive and emotionally resonant whole. The soundtrack and sound design further enrich the atmosphere without ever overpowering the narrative.
Ultimately, NERO is not just a film—it’s a cinematic experience. A rare blend of social realism and metaphysical inquiry, it challenges the audience to reflect on sacrifice, purpose, and what it truly means to live. With standout performances, compelling storytelling, and a haunting visual style, NERO establishes itself as a must-watch and a standout in contemporary Italian cinema.
Congratulations Cast & Crew!
Hidden Fire Star 9/10 ⭐️
Review written by Al Fenderico
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