On May 5, 2025, the Italian television landscape welcomes a new crime drama titled Gerri, premiering on Rai 1. This highly anticipated series stars Giulio Beranek as the complex character Gregorio Esposito, affectionately known as Gerri, alongside Valentina Romani as vice-inspector Lea Coen. Produced by Cattleya, part of ITV Studios, in collaboration with Rai Fiction and the Ministry of Culture, Gerri promises to blend thrilling investigations with deep character introspection.
Set in the picturesque backdrop of Puglia, the series unfolds over four prime-time episodes, airing every Monday evening. The first episode, titled "I figli sono pezzi di cuore" ("Children Are Pieces of the Heart"), kicks off with a chilling murder mystery. Gerri, a 30-year-old police inspector of Romani origin, finds himself embroiled in the investigation of the death of 18-year-old Rossella Albani, the daughter of a powerful local lawyer. The young woman’s body is discovered on a deserted beach, and Gerri is determined to uncover the truth, even if it means risking his own life.
As the investigation unfolds, Gerri's personal struggles become apparent. Described as having "deep, melancholic eyes," he is a man haunted by a troubled past. His charm attracts many women, yet it is Lea Coen, the vice-inspector who seems immune to his allure, who captures his attention. Valentina Romani's portrayal of Lea is that of a strong, astute woman who recognizes Gerri's unresolved issues. Their dynamic promises to be a focal point of the series, as they navigate both professional and personal challenges.
The series is based on novels by Giorgia Lepore, an Italian writer and archaeologist, and has been adapted for the screen by writers Sofia Assirelli and Donatella Diamanti. Directed by Giuseppe Bonito, Gerri is not just about crime-solving; it also delves into Gerri's quest for self-discovery. As he investigates the murder, he must confront his own demons and the shadows of his past.
The supporting cast includes notable actors such as Fabrizio Ferracane as Alfredo Marinetti, Gerri's boss, who becomes increasingly concerned about Gerri's well-being. Marinetti's character takes a personal interest in Gerri's history, probing into his childhood spent in an orphanage after being abandoned by his mother. This subplot adds layers to Gerri's character and sets the stage for deeper emotional storytelling.
In the first episode, Gerri's investigation leads him to question Rossella's friend, Lavinia, and her boyfriend, Giacomo Longo, who is linked to another prominent family in the area. The investigation quickly reveals that everyone seems to be hiding something, creating a web of intrigue that Gerri must navigate carefully.
The second episode, "Come la neve al sud" ("Like Snow in the South"), takes place on Christmas night. Gerri and Lea find themselves the only officers on duty, responding to reports of gunfire at an abandoned warehouse. Here, they encounter a missing colleague's weapon, leading to further complications and secrets, including a connection to a shelter for women in distress that harbors dark dealings.
Filmed entirely in Puglia, the series captures the region's stunning landscapes, with locations including Bisceglie, Trani, and Molfetta, enhancing the visual storytelling. The collaboration with local institutions such as the Puglia Region and the Apulia Film Commission underscores the series' commitment to authenticity.
Each episode of Gerri is approximately 120 minutes long, providing ample time for character development and intricate plotlines. The series will run for four weeks, concluding on May 26, 2025, with viewers able to catch up on episodes via RaiPlay.
As the series unfolds, audiences can expect not only gripping crime narratives but also a profound exploration of personal connections and the impact of one's past on the present. Gerri's journey is one of self-discovery, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of truth, making Gerri a compelling addition to Italy's rich tapestry of television dramas.
