In the vibrant landscape of contemporary Italian cinema and music, two artists stand out for their compelling collaborations: director Emiliano Locatelli and musician Danilo Cristofaro. Their recent projects— the feature film “Il Diavolo è Dragan Cygan” [The Devil is Dragan Cygan] and the accompanying music video for the song “L’Amore Muore”—exemplify their unique talents and shared vision.
Emiliano Locatelli: A Rising Cinematic Voice
Emiliano Locatelli, born in 1984 in Priverno, Italy, has cultivated a rich passion for film and music since childhood. He graduated from La Sapienza University of Rome, where he studied Performing Arts and Sciences, focusing his thesis on influential filmmakers Gus Van Sant and Nicolas Roeg. Locatelli’s journey in cinema began with his participation in the first Rome Film Festival in 2006 as a member of the popular jury, a role personally selected by the esteemed director Ettore Scola.
Over the years, Locatelli has honed his craft, initially working as a sound technician for various film productions featuring notable actors like Danny Glover and Rutger Hauer. In 2009, he founded Whitedust Productions, which has since produced several short films and music videos. His recent feature film, “Il Diavolo è Dragan Cygan”, intertwines themes of friendship, revenge, and the socio-economic struggles of contemporary society, showcasing his talent for storytelling that resonates on multiple levels.
The film features a talented cast including Enzo Salvi, Sebastiano Somma, Adolfo Margiotta, Gennaro Lillio, Ivan Boragine, Giovanni Carta, Emy Bergamo, Carlotta Rondana, and Lara Balbo. It is produced by Roble Factory and Method in collaboration with Whitedust Productions and Nuovaera Film.
The cinematography was handled by Tomaso Aramini, with editing by Lorenzo Muto and Pier Damiano Benghi. Set design is managed by Massimiliano Mereu and Roberto Papi, while sound mixing is conducted by Ivano Zanchi and Mauro Di Giorgio, with re-recording mixing by Stefano Di Fiore. The costume design is crafted by Arturo Montoro and Alice Sinnl, and the music is composed by Emanuele Braga.
Danilo Cristofaro: The Voice of Emotion
Danilo Cristofaro, also hailing from the province of Latina, is a multifaceted artist known for his powerful vocals and songwriting prowess. He co-founded the cult band Floorshow, where he established himself as a prominent figure in the music scene. Under the pseudonym Nightporter V2.0, Cristofaro has created various works for short films and visual performances, demonstrating his versatility as a performer and producer.
His collaboration with Emiliano Locatelli blossomed through the award-winning short film “Solamente Tu”, where Cristofaro’s musical talents shone brightly. The duo has reunited for “Il Diavolo è Dragan Cygan”, contributing the song “L’Amore Muore” to the film’s soundtrack. This poignant piece encapsulates themes of love and loss, described as a passionate waltz that evokes a sense of acceptance and warmth, inviting listeners on a journey of emotional resonance.
Uniting Their Talents
The collaboration between Locatelli and Cristofaro represents a dynamic fusion of visual storytelling and musical expression. In “Il Diavolo è Dragan Cygan”, the narrative weaves together the lives of a former robber, a factory worker, a policeman, and a ruthless industrialist, reflecting the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of economic turmoil. Cristofaro’s “L’Amore Muore” serves as a hauntingly beautiful companion to this tale, enhancing the film’s emotional depth.
As they continue to work together, Locatelli and Cristofaro are not only creating art but are also challenging audiences to reflect on pressing social issues while providing entertainment. Their partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration in the arts, where music and film converge to create a rich tapestry of human experience.
Emiliano Locatelli and Danilo Cristofaro are two artists whose individual talents complement each other, creating a significant impact through their collaborative efforts. With “Il Diavolo è Dragan Cygan” and “L’Amore Muore,” they invite audiences to explore profound themes of friendship, redemption, and the struggles of existence, all while delivering a captivating artistic experience. As they continue to innovate and inspire, their work stands as a beacon of creativity in the contemporary cultural landscape.
Photo credits: All photos are from the archives of Emiliano Locatelli. On the cover: Emiliano Locatelli
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