The Promised Life

In 1920, the Carrizzos work a farm in the Sicilian countryside owned by the unscrupulous Vincenzo Spanò, who is obsessed with the beautiful—but married—head of the family, Carmela. When she rebuffs his advances, Vincenzo targets her son and husband in revenge, and Carmela realizes that to save her children, she must immigrate to America.

At Ellis Island, the registry office changes the family’s surname to Rizzo, which proves to be an unexpected boon. Carmela’s new husband, Matteo Schiavon, introduces her to the dark side of Little ltaly, where criminal gangs blackmail poor people on behalf of the mysterious “Mano Nera.” Back in Naples, Marie marries a wealthy young man.

Life in New York is improving for Carmela and her family: her eldest son, Michele, has secured a job and joined a trade union. Carmela wants him next to start looking for a wife, but Michele would rather focus on fighting for workers’ rights. Carmela gets another surprise when Maria and her husband arrive in America.

Under Mafia pressure, Antonio intimidates Alfredo as he campaigns for La Guardia. Directed by Ricky Tognazzi, 2020.