Film Lens
Terramatta focuses on the life of Vincenzo Rabito, an illiterate Sicilian born in 1899. The film narrates excerpts from his memoir, Terra Matta, detailing his experiences from childhood in Sicily to his involvement in World War I and later life. Rabito was forced to leave school early to support his family after his father's death and later fought in World War I, where he recounts committing atrocities. After the war, he worked in German mines until World War II began.
The film features narration by Roberto Nobile and includes footage of Sicilian landscapes and historical events, along with images of Rabito's original diary pages. His three sons, Turi, Tano, and Giovanni, appear in the film, sharing their memories of their father's life. The documentary premiered at the Venice Film Festival on September 6, 2012, and has been shown in major Italian cities.
Why Watch
- •See Vincenzo Rabito's unique perspective on World War I.
- •Meet Rabito's sons as they revisit their father's childhood home.
- •Find out about the historical context of Sicilian life in the 20th century.
Did You Know
•Vincenzo Rabito was born in 1899 and became illiterate until adulthood.
•He was drafted into World War I as a teenager and committed war crimes.
•Rabito worked in German mines before World War II began.
•His memoir, Terra Matta, is the basis for the documentary and features phonetic Sicilian spelling.
Perfect For
Sicilian historyWorld War I accountsMemoir enthusiasts