Investigative Novel Inspires Director Pippo Mezzapesa’s Modern-Day Romeo and Juliet Set in the Scenic Gargano Promontory of Puglia
In a captivating blend of mafioso-western and modern-day romance, director Pippo Mezzapesa presents “Burning Hearts,” a riveting crime drama set against the picturesque backdrop of Gargano in Puglia, Italy. Inspired by the investigative novel by journalists Carlo Bonini and Giuliano Foschini, the film unfolds a forbidden love story that reignites an age-old feud between the Malatesta and Camporeale families, deeply entrenched in the ruthless codes of the local mafia.
Francesco Patanè takes on the role of Andrea, the reluctant heir of the Malatesta family, while renowned singer Elodie makes her acting debut as Marilena, a beautiful woman caught in a web of passion and danger. Their clandestine romance becomes the catalyst for a war between two rival clans, revealing that in this land of undeniable beauty, the local mafia’s unyielding rule dictates that only blood can wash out blood.
As Marilena finds herself banished by the Camporeale clan and ensnared by the Malatesta family, she becomes a central figure in a narrative fraught with love, retribution, and survival. Amidst the stunning landscapes of Puglia, bathed in both sun and enmity, her struggle for freedom and identity unfolds in a tale that captures the essence of love’s power amidst adversity.
For cinema aficionados in Melbourne, the opportunity to immerse oneself in this gripping tale awaits, with special screening events showcasing the film’s blend of crime, drama, and romance. The 115-minute feature, praised by critics for its captivating portrayal of blood feuds and passionate love, features a stellar cast including Elodie, Francesco Patanè, Michele Placido, Francesco Di Leva, Tommaso Ragno, and Brenno Placido. Presented in Italian with English subtitles, “Burning Hearts” promises audiences an unforgettable cinematic experience that explores the depths of love, loyalty, and retribution in a world where honor and passion collide.
