Watch Taranta on the Road

Taranta on the Road is a 2017 Italian film directed by Salvatore Allocca. This road movie follows the journey of Ciccio (Emmanuele Aita), a young man from Salento who embarks on a trip to Milan on a mission to retrieve a precious relic belonging to his grandfather. Alongside him is his best friend, Enzo (Giandomenico Cupaiuolo), and a free-spirited Tunisian girl named Rym (Nabiha Akkari), who they met along the way.

The film kicks off with Ciccio and Enzo, two young men from the southern region of Salento, who embark on a journey to Milan to retrieve a precious family relic. Along the way, they cross paths with Rym, a Tunisian girl with a passion for music and dance. She is hitchhiking her way around Italy and captures the attention of the two boys. Despite their initial reluctance to take her along, they eventually invite her to join them on their journey.

As they make their way through Italy, their friendship grows stronger, and they encounter a variety of characters, each with their own story. The film’s central narrative revolves around the Taranta dance, which originated in the Salento region and is said to have the power to cure spider bites. Ciccio’s grandfather was a Taranta dancer, and the relic he has sent the boys to retrieve is a tambourine used during these dances. The tambourine is believed to have mystical powers that can help cure spider bites.

As the trio continues their journey north, they encounter various challenges, including car trouble, financial difficulties, and cultural differences. However, they remain steadfast in their determination to complete their quest. Along the way, they also learn the art of Taranta dancing from Rym and perform this traditional dance in various places, spreading the magic of Taranta music and dance.

Although the film’s central plot is about the quest to retrieve the precious family relic, it also delves into the themes of friendship, love, and cultural diversity. The trio’s journey is a metaphor for life itself, with its ups and downs, twists and turns, and unexpected surprises. The film effectively portrays the journey of self-discovery as the characters learn about themselves, their heritage, and their passions.

The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, with beautiful shots of the Italian countryside, scenic views of the Mediterranean, and vibrant musical performances. The film’s soundtrack is a mix of traditional Taranta music and contemporary Italian pop songs, which adds to the film’s charm and immediacy.

In terms of performances, Emmanuele Aita delivers a solid performance as Ciccio, portraying the character with a subtle intensity and sincerity that is endearing. Nabiha Akkari embodies the free-spirited Rym, bringing a sense of joy and exuberance to the role. And Giandomenico Cupaiuolo adds a comic touch to the film as Enzo, with his impeccable comic timing and delivery.

Overall, Taranta on the Road is a heartwarming film that celebrates the beauty of life, music, and culture. The film’s rich themes, beautiful cinematography, and stellar performances make it a must-watch for those who appreciate the power of cinema. Taranta on the Road is a journey worth taking.