The Castle - Review of the 2025 Cinecittà Italian Doc Fest

      **The Castle**

      Directed by Danny Biancardi, Stefano La Rosa, Virginia Nardelli.

      **SYNOPSIS:**

      Angelo, Mary, and Rosy are three young individuals living in a dilapidated neighborhood of Palermo. An abandoned nursery located in the heart of their district transforms into a sanctuary where they can unleash their creativity and escape the daily grind.

      The makers of this captivating documentary skillfully depict a phase of life where everything feels possible. The film features the children—Angelo, Mary, Rosy, and other local kids—who find joy in the space of a deserted nursery in Palermo’s Danisinni district.

      Focusing primarily on the youngsters' perspectives and ensuring that adult curiosity does not interfere with their experiences, the film serves as a profound tribute to friendship and resilience. The trio takes the initiative to explore and tidy up the old kindergarten area, disregarding cautionary advice about potential dangers. They persist in transforming it into a sanctuary where they can express their true selves. This space provides refuge, particularly for Angelo, who shares that he feels disconnected from boys his age and prefers solitude or companionship with Mary and Rosy.

      A glimpse into how this situation impacts him and his friends emerges when some neighborhood kids discover their hideout and intrude, seeking a taste of the enchanting peace that the three have cultivated. Though their cherished haven, dubbed “the castle,” endures this tumultuous intrusion, it is hinted from the beginning that their safe space might not last. The film's Italian title, *Il Castello Indistruttibile*, along with the hopeful tone at its conclusion, raises the possibility that the innocent wisdom and friendship shared among the trio may indeed be indestructible.

      Plans for the neighborhood's revitalization, including a new community center on the site of the castle, provide further optimism for a brighter future for the area. A beautiful soundtrack, featuring both melancholic and uplifting jazz elements by the Swedish artist 1900, adds an additional layer to this dreamily inspired film.

      **Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★**

      Robert W Monk