Watch The Mafia Kills Only in Summer

The Mafia Kills Only in Summer is a 2013 Italian comedy-drama film, marking the directorial debut of Pierfrancesco Diliberto, popularly known as Pif, who also co-wrote and starred in the movie. After premiering at the 70th Venice International Film Festival, the film became a critical and commercial success in Italy, winning multiple awards and nominations.

Set in Palermo, Sicily, The Mafia Kills Only in Summer revolves around the childhood and teenage years of the protagonist, Arturo (played by Pif), a quirky and naive boy who grows up in the late 1970s and early 1980s, during a time when the Mafia was at the height of its power in Sicily. Despite the omnipresence of the Mafia in his daily life, Arturo remains fascinated and curious about their ways, consuming Westerns and action movies with enthusiasm and dreaming of becoming the protagonist himself.

However, Arturo's romantic and comedic escapades - including his crush on his classmate Flora (played by Cristiana Capotondi) - prove to be intermingled with the tragic events of the Mafia's reign of terror in Sicily. Through the years, Arturo witnesses and experiences firsthand the effects of the Mafia on the community, from the assassination of anti-Mafia judges to the bombings and other attacks carried out by the organized crime groups.

The film combines satirical humor, romance, and social commentary about the Mafia's impact on Sicilian culture and society. The protagonist's childhood innocence and ignorance provide a contrast to the grim reality of the times, highlighting the absurdity and irrationality of the Mafia's violence. The movie also features archival footage and newsreels of actual Mafia attacks and assassinations in Palermo, adding a layer of authenticity and historical context to the story.

The performances of the cast are notable, particularly Pif's charming and charismatic portrayal of Arturo. Capotondi plays the smart and independent Flora with grace and wit, while Alex Bisconti delivers a touching performance as Arturo's father, an honest and hardworking man who faces the threat of the Mafia's corruption in his own job.

The cinematography and production design capture the gritty and colorful atmosphere of Palermo, with its narrow streets, iconic landmarks, and vibrant street life. The film's soundtrack features a mix of Italian pop and classic songs, adding to its nostalgic and emotional resonance.

Overall, The Mafia Kills Only in Summer is a poignant and entertaining film that sheds light on an important aspect of Italian history and culture, while also celebrating the resilience and humor of the Sicilian people.

The Mafia Kills Only in Summer is a 2013 romance movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1 and a MetaScore of 62.