Red Like the Sky (2006)

Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1971 Tuscany, "Red Like the Sky" unfolds the inspiring true story of Mirco Mencacci - a prodigious Italian sound editor whose world was plunged into darkness at the tender age of ten. A vivacious young boy with a deep love for Westerns and adventure films, Mirco’s life takes a tragic turn when a dormant rifle he is playing with suddenly discharges, leaving him blind. In the wake of this unfortunate incident, societal prejudices and outdated laws force Mirco into a boarding school for the blind, the David Chiossone Institute in Genoa. Initially, Mirco struggles to accept his new reality, but his indomitable spirit soon finds an outlet. A discarded tape recorder and a few reels become his magical tools, enabling him to craft enchanting tales woven entirely from sounds. Despite the disapproval of the conservative school authorities who aim to suppress Mirco's burgeoning creativity, he refuses to surrender to their narrow-minded views. Gradually, he draws his classmates into his mesmerizing world of sound, reigniting their stifled dreams and hidden talents. A daring escape one night, aided by the sighted daughter of the doorkeeper, leads the young boys to the cinema, a place of shared joy and wonder. However, their innocent adventure has severe repercussions. Mirco is expelled, but his expulsion ignites a wider societal rebellion. Ettore, a politically conscious, blind university student and friend of Mirco, triggers a city-wide protest demanding the boy's readmission. The escalating tension forces the authorities to reconsider their harsh decision, leading to Mirco's triumphant return. Back at the school, Mirco's extraordinary journey culminates in a poignant performance. The children, eschewing traditional religious recitations, present their enchanting "fairy tale in sound" to a captivated audience of blind-folded parents, forever changing perceptions of what it means to be blind. The film is a stirring testament to the human spirit's ability to transcend physical limitations, challenging societal norms and turning adversity into a source of inspiration.

Red Like the Sky is a drama movie featuring Paolo Sassanelli and directed by Cristiano Bortone.

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