Italian
Exploring the heart of “Quir”: A documentary that celebrates resilience and identity
A chance encounter in Palermo
Italian filmmaker Nicola Bellucci’s latest documentary, “Quir,” is a poignant exploration of identity, resilience, and the power of community. The film, which premiered at the Taormina Film Festival, tells the story of Massimo Milani and Gino Campanella, a gay couple who have become icons of the Italian gay movement. Their journey, from the early days of activism in the 1970s to their current life in Palermo, is a testament to the enduring spirit of the LGBTQ+ community.
Bellucci’s introduction to Milani and Campanella was serendipitous. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he stumbled upon their vibrant shop in the multi-ethnic neighborhood of Balarò. Intrigued by the colorful display and the various spellings of the word “Quir,” Bellucci ventured inside. There, he met Massimo, adorned in a miniskirt and blonde wig, and learned about their rich history and upcoming marriage. This chance meeting sparked the idea for a documentary that would capture the essence of a historical movement in Italy.
A refuge for the marginalized
Milani and Campanella’s shop is more than just a place of business; it is a sanctuary for the young trans and gay community of Palermo. Vivian Bellina, a young trans woman, often seeks advice and solace there, while Charly Abbadessa, a former actor, reminisces about his Hollywood days with legends like Tony Curtis, Marilyn Monroe, and Rock Hudson. These interactions lend the film a fictional quality, as Bellucci notes, “They are all involved in thinking about their identities and performing and changing like characters in a film.”
The film’s premiere in Taormina was an emotional experience for Milani. “It was really moving to see it in front of an audience. Our lives passed in front of our eyes on the screen. This is the most beautiful thing that cinema can do,” he shared. For Milani and Campanella, the film is an extension of their political struggle. They have witnessed and endured immense suffering, from suicides to violence and oppression. “We’re responsible also for them. The film is a consequence of our life, so we were very happy to see it,” Milani added.
The theme of care
A central theme in “Quir” is the act of caring. Bellucci emphasizes, “The point of the film is to take care of each other. Everyone in the film has to take care of someone.” This theme is evident in the lives of the film’s characters. Ernesto Tomasini, a friend of Milani and Campanella, pauses his career to care for his ailing mother, performing for her amusement amidst mundane tasks. Charly Abbadessa returns to Sicily to care for his mother, abandoning his career in the process. The writing on the wall outside the shop, “The work of caring is work,” encapsulates this sentiment. Milani and Campanella are not just artisans; they are caregivers in a profound sense.
A reflection on resilience
“Quir” is a celebration of resilience and the human spirit. It captures the struggles and triumphs of a community that has faced immense adversity. The film’s characters, with their unique stories and experiences, offer a rich tapestry of life on the margins of society. Bellucci’s documentary is a reminder of the importance of empathy, care, and the enduring fight for equality.
For those interested in delving deeper into the world of “Quir,” the trailer and additional information can be found at https://trailers.movieetv.com/search/quir. This documentary is not just a film; it is a powerful narrative that resonates with the universal themes of love, struggle, and the quest for identity.
As the credits roll and the screen fades to black, one is left reflecting on the indomitable spirit of those who, despite the odds, continue to fight for a world where everyone can live with dignity and pride.
