The Siege of Paradise

The Cinque Terre, located on Italy’s northern Riviera, are renowned for their stunning views. But it is precisely this beauty that attracts some four million tourists each year, posing challenges for the nearly 4,000 locals. Over the course of one summer, the film follows six people, including restaurant owner Carmelo, winegrower Bartolo, and influencers Grace and Izabel.

With cheeky charm, director Gar O’Rourke (“Sanatorium”) sheds light on the tensions between tourism and local life, asking what remains of a cultural identity when a place becomes a social media dream destination.

The film premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival where Lukas Gut’s cinematography received a Special Mention.