Baraccopolis: the documentary

A four-month preparatory work of investigation, which started with contacts with associations and local bodies working in the field of assistance to the weakest and most marginalized segments of the population. At the end, it was decided to shoot in four locations, selected on the basis of criteria of geographical distribution and type of settlement, but also for their high symbolic value: Messina, Lamezia Terme, Foggia and Brescia.

This was a delicate and complex project: many people did not want to speak out because they feared losing their homes, or because they were disheartened and now certain that nothing would be worthwhile to change the situation, or out of shame. In dealing with these people, an approach was taken that was as respectful as possible and strictly in keeping with journalistic ethics. The crew, limited to two people precisely so as not to be intrusive, never pointed the camera without the consent of the inhabitants, and filmed only where they welcomed it willingly and decided to open up, telling their stories.