8.5 / 10 (based on 6384 reviews)
A criminal known as Lebanese has a dream: to conquer the underworld of Rome. To carry out this feat without precedent he puts together a ruthless and highly organized gang. Their progress and changes in leadership (Lebanese is followed by his cohorts Freddo and Dandi) take place over twenty-five years, from the 1970’s into the ’90’s, and are inseparably intertwined with the dark history of modern Italy: terrorism, kidnappings and corruption at the highest levels of government. Throughout these years Police Lieutenant Scialoia sticks to the gang’s trail, trying both to bring them to justice and to win the heart of Dandi’s girlfriend Patrizia.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Main Cast: Vinicio Marchioni, Alessandro Roja, Marco Bocci, Daniela Virgilio
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2 seasons, 23 episodes
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Romanzo Criminale – La Serie, which aired from 2008 to 2010, is an Italian television series that grabbed the attention of viewers and critics alike for its gritty portrayal of Rome’s criminal underworld during the late 1970s and 1980s. Based on the novel by Giancarlo De Cataldo, which was also adapted into a film in 2005, the series offers a deep dive into the lives of the members of the Banda della Magliana, a real gang that operated in Rome during that period. The series is a blend of historical facts and dramatic fiction, providing a captivating look at the complexities of loyalty, power, and betrayal.
Overview
At its core, Romanzo Criminale is a story about ambition, the thirst for power, and the inevitable downfall that comes with it. The series follows the rise and fall of the Banda della Magliana, focusing on three main characters: the Lebanese (Il Libanese), the Freddo (Cold), and Dandi. These characters, though deeply flawed, are compelling because of their complexity and the dynamics of their relationships with each other and the world around them.
The Characters
- The Lebanese (Il Libanese) is the mastermind behind the formation of the gang. Charismatic and ruthless, he dreams of conquering Rome’s underworld. His leadership skills and vision are the glue that holds the gang together, but his ambition also sows the seeds of their eventual downfall.
- The Freddo (Cold) is the cool-headed, tactical member of the group. His loyalty and sense of justice add depth to his character, making him one of the most relatable figures in the series.
- Dandi is the hot-headed, impulsive member of the trio. His actions are often driven by emotion rather than logic, leading to tensions within the gang and complicating their operations.
These characters, along with a host of others, create a rich tapestry that depicts the complexity of life in the criminal underworld. Their relationships are marked by loyalty and betrayal, love and hatred, showing that even in the darkest of worlds, humanity cannot be entirely extinguished.
The Setting
Rome in the 1970s and 1980s is more than just a backdrop for the series; it’s a character in its own right. The city’s beauty contrasts sharply with the violence and corruption that permeate its streets, creating a stunning visual and thematic dichotomy. The series does an excellent job of capturing the zeitgeist of the era, from the political turmoil to the cultural shifts. This historical context not only adds depth to the narrative but also provides a commentary on the socio-political landscape of Italy during those tumultuous years.
Themes and Messages
Romanzo Criminale is rich in themes that resonate with audiences even today. The quest for power and its corrupting influence is a central motif. The series explores how the characters’ ambitions lead them down dark paths, forcing them to make moral compromises and, ultimately, leading to their undoing.
Loyalty and betrayal are also recurring themes. The bonds between the members of the Banda della Magliana are tested time and again, highlighting the fragility of trust in a world where everyone has a price.
Another significant theme is the impact of violence on both the perpetrators and their victims. The series does not shy away from depicting the brutality of the criminal world, but it also shows the human cost of such a lifestyle, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.
Why It Stands Out
Romanzo Criminale stands out for several reasons. First, its historical accuracy and attention to detail provide a fascinating glimpse into a notorious chapter of Rome’s history. The series creators went to great lengths to ensure that the portrayal of events, settings, and characters was as authentic as possible, making it not only entertaining but also educational.
Second, the character development is exceptional. Over the course of the series, the characters evolve in ways that are both surprising and believable. Their journeys are filled with triumphs and tragedies, making them feel like real people rather than mere caricatures.
Lastly, the storytelling is masterful. The plot is intricate, with numerous twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is perfect, balancing action-packed sequences with quieter, more introspective moments. This narrative balance ensures that the series is both thrilling and thought-provoking.
Conclusion
Romanzo Criminale – La Serie is a masterpiece of television storytelling. It offers a captivating look at the lives of those who operate on the fringes of society, providing insight into their motivations, fears, and desires. The series is a testament to the power of ambition, the cost of loyalty, and the inevitable consequences of violence. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in crime dramas, Italian history, or simply a well-told story.