Watch Rehearsal for a Sicilian Tragedy

Rehearsal for a Sicilian Tragedy is a 2009 documentary film directed and narrated by John Turturro. The film follows the life of renowned Sicilian puppeteer Mimmo Cuticchio and his journey to perform a traditional puppet show in the town where Pirandello, the famous playwright, was born. The film takes the audience on a visually stunning journey through the island of Sicily, exploring the region's rich history, culture, and traditions. Through Cuticchio's personal story and his love for the puppets, the movie provides an intimate look into the art of puppetry and its significance in Sicilian culture.

Cuticchio's story is accompanied by visits to various locations around the island, both urban and rural, that illustrate the complexity and diversity of the Sicilian region. From the bustling streets of Palermo to the serene landscapes of the countryside, Turturro captures the essence of the island.

Throughout the film, Turturro provides insightful commentary on Sicilian history and its cultural traditions. He interviews local historians, puppeteers, and artists who provide an in-depth understanding of Sicilian society and its values.

The heart of the film is the preparation and performance of a traditional Sicilian puppet show. Cuticchio, who is considered one of the greatest puppeteers in Italy, rehearses tirelessly for the big performance in Girgenti, a town that is significant in Sicilian literary tradition. Turturro joins Cuticchio and his troupe as they rehearse the show, giving insight into the laborious process of staging a puppet show.

One of the most poignant moments in the documentary is the performance of the puppet show itself. Cuticchio's puppets come alive, breathing life into characters and a story that has been told for centuries. Turturro captures the emotions of both the performers and the audience, showing how the performance brings people together and evokes a sense of community.

Rehearsal for a Sicilian Tragedy is a celebration of Sicilian culture and an ode to the art of puppetry, beautifully captured by Turturro's exquisite cinematography. The film is a testament to the uniqueness and richness of Sicilian tradition, as well as its ability to unite its people through the arts.

In conclusion, Rehearsal for a Sicilian Tragedy is a thought-provoking journey through Sicilian culture, featuring spectacular vistas of the island and its people. The movie's commentary and intimate look into the life of a Sicilian master craftsman make it a unique cultural experience that is not to be missed.

Rehearsal for a Sicilian Tragedy is a 2011 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 16 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0.