“Storia di una capinera” (The Story of a Blackcap) is a 1993 drama film directed by Franco Zeffirelli, adapted from the novel of the same name by Giovanni Verga, set in Sicily in 1854. The story follows Maria, a novice forced by her family into a convent, who discovers love during a cholera epidemic.
In 1854, cholera breaks out in Catania and the novices of a Carmelite convent are sent home. Maria Vizzini, pushed towards a religious vocation by her cruel stepmother, returns to the family villa in Noto and meets Nino, a young student fascinated by her innocence. Their mutual passion drives Maria mad after her return to the convent, culminating in tragedy like a caged blackcap.
Franco Zeffirelli directs the film, shot in Sicily between Aci Trezza, Etna and Zafferana Etenea, with a running time of 114 minutes. It paints a sensitive portrait of forced monasticism and conflicts between the heart and duty. The interior scenes were shot at Villa Zimmado in Modica.
Main Cast
- Angela Bettis interpreta Maria Vizzini.
- Johnathon Schaech è Nino.
- Valentina Cortese (Madre Superiora), Vanessa Redgrave (Sorella Agata), Sinéad Cusack (Matilde), John Castle (Giuseppe Vizzini).
The production designer is Giantito Burchiellaro, winner of the 1994 David di Donatello award for best production design.
Awards: Italian National Syndicate of Film Journalists: WON Silver Ribbon Best Costume Design – Gramado Film Festival: Nominated Best Latin Film David di Donatello Awards: WON David Best Costume Design Nominated Best Production Design.
David di Donatello Awards: WON David Best Costume Design Nominated Best Production Design
