The question circulating among cinephiles is clear: “Have you seen Parthenope?” This question is not only a way to start a conversation, but reflects the impact of Paolo Sorrentino’s film, winner of the Oscar. The film, already at the center of heated debates, has won over young people and transformed into a cultural phenomenon.
Set in Naples, Parthenope explores the complex stages of life through the eyes of a young protagonist, whose existence mirrors that of the city of Naples. The film addresses themes such as growth, disillusionment and freedom, evoking autobiographical references that recall the director’s unlived youth, as already mentioned in other works. Reactions on social media have exploded, with critical comments reminiscent of those of football coaches. Despite mixed reviews – including a slam from critic Goffredo Fofi who called the film “without poetry and without story” – box office receipts are rapidly surpassing €6 million since its release on October 24.
One of the key factors in the success of Parthenope was the promotional strategy of the distribution. The newly formed Piperfilm created an exclusive event inviting ten creators to the Vesuvio hotel for an immersive experience with Sorrentino. This approach generated viral content that captured the attention of young people, the very audience the director wanted to conquer. The film has also inspired a series of gadgets and merchandising: T-shirts with slogans like “J’adore Sorrentino” and figurines of the main characters are becoming collector’s items among fans. These initiatives are joined by culinary experiences such as Enzo Coccia’s Parthenope pizza and the “Parthenope” canoe tour at Bagno Sirena in Posillipo.
With Parthenope, Paolo Sorrentino offers not only a cinematographic work but a true generational manifesto. The soundtrack, with the song “Era già tuttoaspettato” by Cocciante, reached the first place in the Spotify viral 50, signaling a renewed interest in the popular culture of the 70s. This film is an ode to youth and the freedom to experiment. Sorrentino seems to want to convey to young people what he himself could not fully experience. With every screening and every discussion started, Parthenope continues to stimulate vital conversations on universal themes that concern us all.
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