I am Not Scared is a beautifully shot film that immerses the audience in the stunning landscapes of southern Italy while unfolding a gripping, emotional story. Directed by Gabriele Salvatores, the film masterfully blends elements of childhood adventure, suspense, and a profound coming-of-age journey.
The story centers on ten-year-old Michele (Giuseppe Cristiano), whose summer unfolds in the countryside, filled with carefree adventures alongside his friends.
Michele is a kind-hearted and brave boy, as demonstrated when he helps his injured sister and protects a girl in their group from embarrassment. He is also imaginative and curious, and his curiosity drags him into something he never expected.
Near an abandoned farmhouse, he stumbles across a hidden pit—and inside, there’s a boy his age, chained up and barely hanging on. At first, he’s terrified, ready to bolt, but something keeps pulling him back.
The cinematography of I am Not Scared is breathtaking. Wide shots emphasize the vast, golden wheat fields, making the kids look so small, like little specks in this big, wide world. At first, the camera just hangs out in a more observational style, soaking up that chill childhood vibe, but when things start getting heavy, it ramps up to match.
Giuseppe Cristiano portrayed Michele so naturally and convincingly that I often felt like I was observing the happenings on screen through his eyes. His expressions and body language effectively convey his internal conflicts and feelings of confusion, fear, empathy, and courage.
Beyond its coming-of-age narrative, I am Not Scared also succeeds as a suspenseful drama. The tension builds naturally, aided by a musical score that subtly shifts in tempo to match the story’s emotional beats.
Many Italian films explore themes of crime, and that`s the case even for Coming-of-Age narratives – which offer a unique perspective as through the eyes of a child, the world of crime is not just dangerous but incomprehensible. That was the case in both Stolen Days and Our Father, and I am Not Scared is right up in their league in terms of poignant and well-told exploration of the clash between innocence and the harsh realities of organized crime.
The film’s ending is nothing short of extraordinary. It delivers one of the most intense climaxes I have seen in a movie. Highly recommended!
