Watch Mezzogiorno Sicily: Palermo, Palermo....

Mezzogiorno Sicily: Palermo, Palermo... is a 1989 Italian documentary film directed by Werner Herzog. The film takes us on a journey through the city of Palermo, the capital of Sicily in the southern region of Italy. The film explores the city's rich history and culture, but more importantly, it delves deep into the city's modern-day struggles with crime, corruption, poverty, and the Mafia.

The film begins with a striking aerial shot of Palermo, which sets the tone for the rest of the movie. From there, Herzog takes us through the city's busy streets, its bustling markets, and its historic buildings. We learn about the city's long and complex history, which has been shaped by various civilizations and cultures, including the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spaniards.

Throughout the film, Herzog interviews a variety of people who live and work in Palermo. We hear from politicians, police officers, journalists, priests, artists, and ordinary citizens who share their perspectives on the city's many problems. Some speak openly about the Mafia, which has long been a powerful force in Sicily and which continues to exert its influence over the region to this day.

One of the most memorable interviews in the film is with a former Mafia hitman named Tommaso Buscetta. Buscetta is shown testifying in front of a courtroom, discussing the Mafia's operations and hierarchy in great detail. He provides a chilling glimpse into the inner workings of the organization and sheds light on its extensive network of connections and influence.

Another key thread in the film is the city's poverty and unemployment. Herzog highlights the struggles of ordinary citizens who are struggling to make ends meet, including a man who lives in an abandoned train car and a woman who sells rice pudding on the streets. The film also explores the city's vibrant street culture, including its music, dance, and art.

Despite the serious subject matter, Herzog injects the film with a sense of dark humor and irony. In one scene, he interviews a man who works in a crematorium and who makes jokes about his job. In another, he speaks with a group of fishermen who sing a song about the joys of the sea, even as they complain about the lack of fish in the waters.

Overall, Mezzogiorno Sicily: Palermo, Palermo... is a powerful and insightful look at one of Italy's most fascinating and troubled cities. Through its exploration of the city's many contradictions and complexities, the film offers a nuanced portrait of a place that is at once beautiful, chaotic, and deeply troubled. While it may not offer easy solutions to the problems it presents, it is an important reminder of the power of film to shed light on the world around us.