On the evening of May 9, 2025, viewers tuned in to Rai 2 for the premiere of "Mixed by Erry," a film that tells the captivating true story of the Frattasio brothers, who revolutionized the music scene in Italy during the 1980s. Directed by Sydney Sibilia, the film captures the rise of a music piracy empire that began in the working-class neighborhoods of Naples and resonated throughout the country.
Set against the backdrop of the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, "Mixed by Erry" follows the journey of Enrico Frattasio, affectionately known as Erry, portrayed by Luigi D’Oriano. Erry, a shy and unassuming young man, works in an appliance store in Naples where he creatively utilizes the store's recorders to craft mixtapes for friends and customers. As he navigates his modest life, his passion for music and desire to become a DJ shines through, despite his struggles with charisma and confidence.
When the store closes, Erry, with the help of his brothers Peppe and Angelo, takes a leap of faith and transforms his hobby into a full-fledged business, eventually launching the "Mixed by Erry" brand. This venture quickly evolves into a cultural phenomenon, as the brothers produce and sell unauthorized cassette tapes, attracting attention not only from music enthusiasts but also from law enforcement and the mafia.
The film's narrative is infused with a mix of humor and melancholy, reflecting the brothers' journey from obscurity to notoriety. As their brand gains popularity, they find themselves embroiled in a world of crime and competition, needing to protect their burgeoning empire from various threats. The film also highlights significant events, such as the scrutiny they faced from the Guardia di Finanza following the infamous 1991 Festival di Sanremo.
The cast of "Mixed by Erry" includes notable performances from Giuseppe Arena as Peppe and Emanuele Palumbo as Angelo, alongside Cristiana dell’Anna, who plays their mother Marisa Frattasio, and Adriano Pantaleo as their father Pasquale. Francesco Di Leva adds depth to the story as Captain Fortunato Ricciardi, a figure intent on bringing the Frattasio brothers to justice.
Since its release, "Mixed by Erry" has garnered critical acclaim, winning three prestigious Nastri d’Argento awards in 2023, including Best Comedy, Best Set Design, and Best Casting Director. Additionally, the film received two nominations for the David di Donatello awards in 2024, further solidifying its impact on the Italian film landscape.
Despite its success, the real Enrico Frattasio has noted that the film takes creative liberties with certain aspects of their story. In an interview with Vanity Fair, he stated, "On a scale from 1 to 10, let’s say the film is truthful 6. The story is romanticized, everything is much amplified. The facts are those, but, for example, the bomb and the hidden billions under the tennis court never existed. Also, the beginning didn’t actually happen that way; I won the lottery, a thirteen and four twelves. With that money, I cleared my father's debts and bought the first system to record the tapes. Let’s say the book by Simona Frasca published by Ad Est dell'Equatore is much more direct, more relevant to reality: the book tells everything as it really happened.”
As viewers settled in to watch the film, they were treated to a nostalgic soundtrack featuring the best music from the 1980s and 1990s, which not only enhances the film's emotional depth but also serves as a reminder of the cultural context in which the Frattasio brothers thrived.
Rai 2's programming on that Friday evening was carefully curated to appeal to a diverse audience, beginning with the American crime drama "Blue Bloods" before transitioning to the Italian film "Mixed by Erry." This combination of genres allowed the network to showcase both compelling narratives and the richness of Italian storytelling.
The film's portrayal of the Frattasio brothers illustrates a broader theme of resilience and ambition in the face of adversity. Erry emerges as a symbol of hope for those who dare to dream, even when the odds are stacked against them. His journey resonates with many, reflecting the struggles of countless individuals striving for success in a challenging world.
In a time when the music industry was undergoing significant shifts, the Frattasio brothers carved out their niche, becoming cultural icons in their own right. Their story is not just about piracy; it is a testament to the power of creativity and the lengths to which individuals will go to pursue their passions.
As "Mixed by Erry" aired for the first time on national television, it marked a significant moment for Italian cinema, showcasing a story that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. The film invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of legality, creativity, and the spirit of entrepreneurship, all while celebrating the vibrant culture of Naples.
Overall, the premiere of "Mixed by Erry" on Rai 2 serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of stories that shape our understanding of history and culture. It stands as a proud representation of Italian cinema, blending humor, drama, and a dose of reality that captivates audiences across generations.
