The Hand of God

In 1984 Naples, Fabietto Schisa enjoys a joyful and carefree adolescence, surrounded by his loving family and the vibrant personalities of their friends. This period encapsulates the blissful innocence of youth before the ensuing crises.

Fabietto's aunt, Patrizia, suffers abuse at the hands of her husband, which casts a shadow over the family dynamics. This personal crisis sets the stage for deeper familial tensions and highlights the precariousness of their seemingly happy lives.

Fabietto's friend Marchino faces heartbreak after a failed audition with the illustrious filmmaker Federico Fellini. This event marks a pivotal moment in Marchino’s life as he grapples with his dashed dreams and aspirations in the acting world.

Tensions rise further when Saverio betrays Maria's trust through infidelity, complicating the relationships within the family. The betrayal carries weighty implications, distressing both Saverio and Maria's journey toward reconciliation.

The arrival of soccer superstar Diego Maradona introduces a source of joy and hope to the city amid the chaos of familial challenges. For Fabietto, Maradona's brilliance on the field provides a much-needed escape from the turbulence at home.

In an attempt to strengthen their bond, Saverio and Maria buy a villa in Roccaraso for family holidays, inviting Fabietto to join them. However, Fabietto chooses to forego this offer in favor of experiencing the excitement of a live Napoli-Empoli match.

A devastating turn of events occurs when Saverio and Maria die from carbon monoxide poisoning at the villa. This tragic incident overwhelms Fabietto with grief and survivor’s guilt, marking a significant turning point in his life.

In the wake of his parents' death, Fabietto finds himself searching for meaning, seeking counsel from his uncle Alfredo. Alfredo console him with the notion that he was spared by 'the hand of God,' which initiates Fabietto's quest for understanding.

Fabietto visits Aunt Patrizia in a psychiatric institution, where she shares her traumatic past with him. Her experiences, including a miraculous pregnancy and subsequent miscarriage, resonate deeply with Fabietto as he considers his own future.

Amidst personal turmoil, Fabietto's ambition to study cinematography grows stronger, influenced by a captivating film and actress. This dream fuels his desire to escape the restrictions of his surroundings and pursue a more fulfilling path.

Fabietto forms a bond with Armando, a smuggler entangled in Neapolitan crime. This friendship provides mutual understanding and support, as both grapple with their respective adversities and search for their place.

Fabietto's relationships with Marchino and Daniela begin to falter, as both friends deal with their own battles. Marchino retreats from reality, while Daniela reveals a shocking family secret about a half-brother, adding to Fabietto's sense of isolation.

During a performance, director Antonio Capuano harshly critiques actress Yulia, igniting Fabietto's yearning to study cinema. This moment serves as a catalyst, prompting him to affirm his dream to move to Rome despite Capuano’s warning about escaping pain.

Napoli secures its first league title, symbolizing a moment of collective celebration for the city. Fabietto, inspired by the triumph, solidifies his promise to pursue his dream of moving to Rome and embracing new opportunities.

As Fabietto boards a train to Rome, he experiences a poignant moment when he encounters a 'munaciello' at a lonely station. This encounter evokes cherished memories of his parents, reinforcing his resolve to start anew in the vibrant city.