Watch Solino

Solino is a 2002 German film directed by Fatih Akin. It tells the story of an Italian family that moves to Germany in the 1960s and their struggles to adapt to a new culture and environment. The film focuses on the Mancusos, a family of four from Solino, a small town in southern Italy. The father Romano (Vitaliano Trevisan) decides to move his family to Germany in search of a better life. They settle in the Ruhr district, a region known for its coal mines and steel mills, and find work in a factory.

The family is headed by Romano, a proud and stubborn man who struggles to adapt to the German way of life. He is joined by his wife Rosa (Antonella Attili), a loving caretaker who tries to keep the peace between her husband and their sons.

The two sons, Gigi (Barnaby Metschurat) and Giancarlo (Moritz Bleibtreu), are the heart of the film. Gigi, the younger of the two, is fiercely independent and dreams of opening up a pizza restaurant. Giancarlo, on the other hand, is more reserved and struggles to find his place in the world.

As they grow up, the brothers begin to experience the German culture and its people. They learn the language, make friends, and fall in love. They experience the thrill of riding motorcycles, listening to rock music, and going to the movies. But at the same time they realize that they are different from the people around them, and that they will always be seen as outsiders.

The film is both a coming-of-age story and a portrait of an immigrant family trying to find its way in a new country. It explores themes of identity, belonging, and family ties. It also provides a glimpse into the German society of the 1960s and the impact of immigration on it.

The film is beautifully shot and features a great soundtrack that includes classic Italian songs and German rock music. The performances are outstanding, especially from Metschurat and Bleibtreu, who deliver nuanced and emotional performances.

Overall, Solino is a moving and poignant film that reminds us of the challenges of immigration and the importance of family and cultural heritage. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the immigrant experience, German culture, or simply a great story.