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.

On the long journey to America, Carmela works aboard the ship to pay her family’s way and begins to learn what to expect upon arrival. She also meets Mr. Ferri, a rich gentleman who assists the Carrizzos. Meanwhile, her daughter Maria recovers from her illness in Naples, and Donna Assunta seeks to reunite the girl with her family.

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.

Rocco runs away after Carmela gets into a heated argument with his wife, Rosa. Directed by Ricky Tognazzi, 2020.

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