Watch The Promised Life

La vita promessa, or The Promised Life, is an Italian drama television series airing on Rai 1 since 2018. The HBO-Cinemax collaboration offers a complex, captivating, and harrowing journey, starting from the confines of Fascist Italy through to the hopeful horizon of America. This migrant tale will engage viewers as it embarks on an exploration of resilience, love, injustice, and the unwavering hope for a better life amidst turbulent times.

Helmed by Ricky Tognazzi, an award-winning director famed for his distinguished contributions to Italian cinema, The Promised Life distinguishes its narrative through a unique chronological arc, beginning from 1921 and trailblazing through the most pivotal events of the early 20th Century. Tognazzi meticulously crafts each detail of the epoch, immersing the audience in the time period with meticulously constructed sets, costumes, and unforgettable, immersive cinematography.

The story centers on Carmela Carrizzo, a determined, intensely strong, and loving mother, portrayed by the tremendously talented Luisa Ranieri. Carmela embodies the spirit of a protective mother lioness who would go to any lengths to keep her children safe from harm and provide them with better opportunities. When faced with overwhelming adversity, she makes the bold decision to uproot her life, and together with her family, embark on the perilous voyage from Sicily to America. Through their journey, the audience is provided with an intimate and vivid portrayal of immigrant life during one of the most tumultuous periods of modern history.

The drama does not only focus on this daunting voyage, but it also delves deep into the dynamic between members of the Carrizzo family. Each character is well developed, exhibiting distinct personalities, ambitions, inner conflicts, and dreams. Ranieri's exceptional performance is supported by an ensemble cast featuring some of the most popular veteran and new generation Italian actors; with Thomas Trabacchi, Francesco Testi, Miriam Dalmazio, and a host of others, all delivering compelling performances that contribute to the show's gripping narrative.

The Promised Life's chief strength lies in its exploration of themes including resilience, hope, and sacrifice. It offers an unflinching look into Italy's troubled past while simultaneously spinning a heartfelt family story. The audience accompanies the Carrizzo family through their struggle against poverty, tyranny, prejudice, and the harsh realities of migration.

The engaging narrative is further amplified by the artful production design that recreates the spirit of the 20th century in meticulous detail - from the idyllic countryside of Sicily to the bustling cityscape of New York. The grim picture of the times is highlighted by the muted color scheme, while the sharp contrast of the world they leave behind and the world they enter is strikingly depicted.

The soundtrack, lush with an array of period-appropriate Italian and American music, illustrates both the cultural richness and societal contrasts of the period. The score effectively evokes emotion, punctuates dramatic moments, and plays a vital role in immersing the audience in the portrayed era.

As a migrant drama, The Promised Life is more than just the Carrizzo family’s journey across the ocean; it’s an exploration of their personal growth, the impact of traditional values, societal expectations, and each individual’s struggle for freedom and identity. The delicate intertwining of the personal with the socio-political provides a balanced, in-depth look at an often-neglected part of history while paying homage to the thousands of immigrants who sailed to America in search of 'the promised life'.

In essence, The Promised Life offers a thoroughly engaging narrative that combines historical drama with a moving migrant tale. Perfectly blending heartfelt emotional storytelling with historical accuracy, this Italian drama is a captivating depiction of an era gone by and an immersive look at the lives that were touched, and changed, by immigration.

The Promised Life is a series that is currently running and has 2 seasons (11 episodes). The series first aired on October 14, 2019.