Arrangiarsi: pizza... and the art of living

This film, like its subject, is multifaceted. We begin with heartbreak and the way life can fall apart, and find ourselves on an odyssey to discover the mysteries of Naples pizza.

The pizza is sublime. But why?

What begins as simple becomes complex, layered and poignant. Is it the water? (Yes.) Is it the soil? (Yes.) Is it the heart and soul of the people? (Yes.) And what about the filmmaker? Will he be redeemed by this journey? (Maybe.) What does this all mean, anyway?

The story of Naples pizza is, of course, also the story of the place, the people, the history - oppression, mythology, resilience. It is also the story of the narrator, Matteo, who lets us into his life with brave intimacy and humility. This kind of storytelling and filmmaking is the best of both worlds - educational (some history lessons here), engaging and sweet. The film avoids tidy platitudes about life, and lets the viewer come to her own experience of how complicated, messy and challenging life can be.

This film is ultimately a love letter to Italy, to Naples, to family and heart and friends and history and ancestors. Strongly recommended for anyone who can relate to being on a journey, learning how to trust where it all may lead, trials and all.

Be prepared to want to board a plane immediately for the best pizza in the world, a vital and vibrant city, and the potential for being reminded of the human spirit.

Brava!