Rose Island

In 1968, Giorgio Rosa takes a significant step by petitioning the Council of Europe for the recognition of his self-made island. This decision marks the beginning of an ambitious project that he hopes will offer freedom and innovative possibilities.

The story flashes back to Bologna where Giorgio reconnects with his ex-girlfriend Gabriella. Their relationship, however, faces turmoil after a series of unfortunate incidents during a football match leads to a tragic accident involving her father's television.

After offering to drive Gabriella home, Giorgio finds himself in hot water when the makeshift car he's created, which features his grandmother's couch, gets them detained by the police. His lack of a driving license results in a night spent in jail, only to be bailed out by his father.

Three months later, while working with motorbike racer Bruno Spaggiari, Giorgio's ambitions are reignited after he sees an advertisement for an oil platform. He shares his vision for an island with Maurizio, who is eager to escape his family obligations.

Using a stolen sum of 700,000 lire, Giorgio and Maurizio begin constructing their ambitious floating island using hollow steel poles. Their collaboration results in a breakthrough that leads to the effective provision of fresh water on the island.

On the first night of their new island's existence, a fierce storm disrupts their celebration, forcing them to shelter a castaway welder named Pietro Bernardini. He becomes the first resident of what is soon named Rose Island.

Wolfgang Rudy Neumann, a stateless former German soldier, arrives at the island excited to promote it as a tourist haven. His arrival helps spread the word about Rose Island, attracting curious individuals from across Europe.

Gabriella arrives on the island intending to confront Giorgio about her impending marriage. When she dismisses the island's legitimacy, Giorgio passionately defends Rose Island, explaining the customs and systems they've established.

The Italian government, led by Minister of Internal Affairs Franco Restivo, takes notice of the growing situation on the island. After officers sent to investigate fail to return, they decide to take further action against Giorgio's creation.

As pressure escalates on Giorgio, he consults Gabriella, who recommends seeking help from the Council of Europe. Meanwhile, the government issues a grave ultimatum, threatening the very existence of Rose Island.

Giorgio stands firm against the Italian navy's threats, appealing to the unwavering support from his island's residents and Gabriella, who decides to leave her fiancé to stand by his side. This act of solidarity intensifies the standoff.

In a devastating turn of events, the Italian government decides to destroy Rose Island, leading to its ultimate obliteration. This scene serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and innovation.

Despite the tragic end, the film highlights the rekindled romance between Giorgio and Gabriella. Their love story becomes a symbol of resilience as the legacy of Rose Island paves the way for changes in international maritime laws.

The events surrounding Rose Island resonate through history, being recognized as the only nation directly attacked by the Italian Republic. Following this, the United Nations extends international waters, reflecting on the significance of the situation.