Neapolitans are voicing their concerns over the persistent focus on crime narrative associated with their city as filming commences for "Gomorrah: Origins," a new prequel in the popular series “Gomorrah.” This latest installment explores the beginnings of the Camorra crime family, but many locals feel enough is enough.
A banner unfurled in a popular area of Naples recently declared that the city does not support the ongoing portrayal of its residents as steeped in crime. “Basta,” which translates to “enough,” resonates with shop owners like Gennaro Di Virgilio, who finds the life-like representation of the “malavita” troubling. “They filmed the first one, they filmed the second one,” he lamented.
Despite its previous reputation, Naples has enjoyed a surge in tourism thanks to its rich culture and vibrant streets, far removed from the scenes of lawlessness depicted in the series. However, the shadow of “Gomorrah,” originally based on Roberto Saviano's nonfiction book, looms large over Naples' image. Since the show debuted in 2014, it has spawned multiple films, deepening the city's association with criminality.
Local sentiments reflect a yearning not to be typecast solely as a city of crime while it struggles with youth unemployment and social issues. With the city's renaissance underway, many assert that the narratives should also embrace the beauty and resilience of Naples beyond the scope of criminal portrayals.
