Black Paths

In Black Paths, the chaotic aftermath of World War I unfolds in Fiume, where love and madness collide amid a surreal landscape.

Set in 1919, Black Paths explores the tumultuous aftermath of the Austro-Hungarian Empire's defeat, as the city port of Fiume falls under the chaotic influence of pirates. Gabriele d'Annunzio, a self-proclaimed 'Pirate King', leads a band of 3,000 loyal Italian soldiers to seize control of the city. He declares Fiume a free Republic, envisioning it as a utopian city-state with himself at the helm. However, this dream quickly spirals into madness, marked by looting and a surreal atmosphere reminiscent of Rome's decline.

Amidst the chaos, the story follows Mina, a captivating young singer with dark hair, who finds herself entangled in a passionate love affair with a soldier. Their romance unfolds against the backdrop of a city in disarray, highlighting the contrasts between love and the surrounding turmoil. The characters navigate their desires and fears in a place where reality and madness intertwine.

Lauriano, another soldier, roams the streets of Fiume, haunted by the horrors of war. He searches the city's alleys for the ghost of his past, embodying the psychological scars left by the trenches. Black Paths delves into themes of love, loss, and the impact of war on the human psyche, painting a vivid picture of a city caught between dreams and despair.