In a tale that echoes the vibrant streets of 1980s Naples, the film Mixed by Erry, directed by Sydney Sibilia, chronicles the rise and fall of Enrico Frattasio, known as Erry, and his brothers as they carve out a niche in the underground music scene through the production of counterfeit cassettes. Set to air on Rai 2 on May 9, 2025, at 21:20, the film has already captured the hearts of many, grossing over 1 million euros since its release.
Enrico Frattasio, a young DJ with a passion for music, started his journey in the bustling neighborhood of Forcella, Naples. His story began with a simple desire: to share his love for music. Working in a local electronics shop, he initially mixed compilation tapes for friends, which quickly gained popularity. "We were music dealers at a good price," said Peppe Frattasio, Erry's brother, in an interview with Corriere della Sera. "The difference between us and others was our passion for music. We spent our days locked in a room listening to songs, knowing exactly what to put together in 60-minute tapes. We were the algorithm of the time!"
By the mid-1990s, with the help of his brothers Peppe, Angelo, and Claudio, Erry transformed his hobby into a booming business, creating the brand Mixed by Erry. They sold approximately 180 million counterfeit cassettes, raking in an impressive 80 million lire a week. Their cassettes were not just popular locally; they reached audiences across Italy and even abroad, establishing a significant underground market.
Their success, however, attracted the attention of authorities. In 1997, the Frattasio brothers' operation was dismantled, and Erry was sentenced to four and a half years in prison. Reflecting on his past, Erry once stated, "Mixing music didn’t seem illegal at the time. The streets we walked were filled with serious problems, starting with drugs. So, dealing with music, even if pirated, seemed like the lesser evil. Plus, I was young. It was the era of free radio!"
Upon his release, the brothers faced the reality of their choices. They returned to more humble jobs, with Erry managing a box and packaging store in Naples. Today, at around 60 years old, he remains a figure of interest, still passionate about music and occasionally performing as a DJ in events across Italy. Despite the challenges, the legacy of Mixed by Erry lives on, both in the hearts of those who remember the music scene of the 80s and in the film that brings their story to life.
As the film Mixed by Erry airs tonight, it offers a blend of comedy and drama, showcasing not only the entrepreneurial spirit of the Frattasio brothers but also the socio-economic challenges of Naples during that era. The film features a talented cast, including Luigi D’Oriano as Erry, Giuseppe Arena as Peppe, and Emanuele Palumbo as Angelo. Their performances bring to life the chaotic yet exhilarating journey of three brothers who dared to dream big amidst the backdrop of a city filled with both opportunity and peril.
Director Sydney Sibilia has been praised for his ability to capture the essence of Naples, blending humor and heart in a narrative that resonates with audiences today. The film is described as a vibrant homage to the spirit of creativity and resilience that characterized the music scene of the time, even as it navigated the murky waters of legality.
Critics have noted that Mixed by Erry is more than just a story about music piracy; it reflects the broader themes of aspiration, community, and the quest for identity in a rapidly changing world. It serves as a reminder of the lengths individuals will go to pursue their passions, often at great personal risk.
As the broadcast approaches, anticipation builds among viewers eager to see how the film portrays the real-life events that shaped the Frattasio brothers' lives. With its engaging narrative and authentic portrayal of a unique slice of Italian history, Mixed by Erry promises to be a memorable cinematic experience.
For those interested in the intersection of music, culture, and the complexities of life in Naples, this film is a must-watch. It captures a moment in time when the spirit of innovation and rebellion was alive and well, reminding us all that sometimes, the most extraordinary stories come from the most unexpected places.
