June 12 at 5:00 PM – Conference Room, MEI – National Museum of Italian Emigration, Genoa. According to Italian American historian Gary Mormino, “One in two Italians living in the South considers Florida home…” In recent years, Florida has indeed seen a significant rise in both Italian Americans relocating from other states and Italians drawn by the Southern Italy-like climate who have decided to settle in the Sunshine State.

It is in Florida that an inspiring collaboration between two young women from Campania gave birth to an innovative project: a docu-film exploring the identity of Italians and Italian Americans in Florida. Vincenza Iadevaia, originally from the Sannio region, and Manuela Filomena, from Irpinia, combined their passions for documentary filmmaking and ethnography to create My FlorÌta, a film that authentically portrays how the concept of Italian identity and culture continues to evolve.

The film tells stories of life, resilience, and adaptation among those who have chosen South Florida as their new home. Set in Palm Beach, in the heart of South Florida, the documentary captures the vibrancy of a thriving Italian American community. Conceived by Vincenza Iadevaia, Ph.D. in Comparative Studies from Florida Atlantic University (FAU), co-written with Manuela Filomena and directed by Filomena herself, the film delves into the experiences of Italians who have recently moved to this part of the world. It pays special attention to how integration with the new environment shapes identities and affects the preservation of traditions.

The screenplay unfolds along two main narrative threads. The first features a series of interviews enriched with 2D animations. The second follows a poetic storyline centered on Alpha, an enigmatic young man who symbolizes Florida’s future. Alpha drives a timeless red car, used as a metaphorical tool to collect the puzzle pieces representing the adaptation journey of newcomers in this “New-New Land” of South Florida.

My FlorÌta is more than just a collection of personal stories—it’s a celebration of the Italo-Floridian community and its ability to keep traditions alive while adapting to the changes of an increasingly globalized society. This docu-film acts as a bridge between two worlds—Italian and American—brought together under the Florida sun, offering a unique and moving look at migration, culture, and identity.

Participants include:

Eufrasio Volpe, producer and creative director of the film

Manuela Filomena, screenwriter and director

Andrea Chiodetti, composer of the original score

Letizia La Cava, 2D illustrator

Opening remarks by: Anna Maria Saiano
Moderator: Giorgia Barzetti