Tonight marks the premiere of the highly anticipated crime drama series "Gerri" on Rai 1, a show that promises to captivate audiences with its compelling storytelling and rich character development. The first episode, titled "I figli sono pezzi di cuore" (Children Are Pieces of Heart), airs on Monday, May 5, 2025, at 9:30 PM, followed immediately by the second episode, "Come la neve al sud" (Like Snow in the South).
Directed by Giuseppe Bonito, "Gerri" is based on the crime novels of Giorgia Lepore, an Italian writer and archaeologist known for her insightful depictions of complex characters and gripping plots. The series is produced by Cattleya in collaboration with Rai Fiction and the Ministry of Culture, with significant support from the Puglia Region and the Apulia Film Commission Foundation.
At the heart of the series is Gregorio Esposito, affectionately known as Gerri, played by the talented Giulio Beranek. Gerri is a police inspector of Roma origin, a character that adds a fresh perspective to the genre, as he navigates the challenges of his profession while grappling with a troubled past. His backstory includes being abandoned by his mother, which fuels his empathy towards victims, particularly children and women. Beranek describes Gerri as a character who struggles to filter his emotions, often seeing reflections of his own pain in the cases he investigates.
Valentina Romani stars alongside Beranek as Deputy Inspector Lea Coen, a character who contrasts sharply with Gerri. While Gerri is impulsive and emotionally driven, Lea is rational and methodical. Romani explains that her character operates with a level of detachment, finding it easier to focus on others rather than confront her own feelings. This dynamic sets the stage for a compelling partnership as they tackle the complexities of their cases together.
The first episode introduces viewers to a chilling investigation: the lifeless body of a young girl, Rossella Albani, discovered on a desolate beach. As Gerri delves into the case, he navigates the murky waters of local power dynamics, including the victim's influential father and connections to prominent families in the area. Despite pressure to follow conventional leads, Gerri pursues a different angle, focusing on the victim's friend, Lavinia, which leads him into dangerous territory.
In the second episode, which also airs tonight, the narrative shifts to Christmas night, where Gerri and Lea find themselves alone at the police station. They respond to reports of gunfire at an abandoned warehouse, only to discover that the shots were fired by a colleague's weapon. This episode further explores Gerri's character as he begins to develop a closer relationship with Lea, all while Marinetti, played by Massimo Wertmüller, investigates Gerri's mysterious past.
Wertmüller's character, Nicola Santeramo, is the head of the Mobile unit and often finds himself at odds with Gerri due to the latter's unconventional methods. Despite this, Gerri has a strong support system, including his superior Alfredo Marinetti, portrayed by Fabrizio Ferracane, and Claudia Marinetti, played by Roberta Caronia, who often provides Gerri with counsel. Additionally, the character of PM Maddalena Crovace, played by Carlotta Natoli, adds another layer of intrigue as she harbors feelings for Gerri and often defends him.
Filmed entirely in the picturesque region of Puglia, "Gerri" showcases stunning backdrops from cities such as Bisceglie, Trani, Molfetta, Barletta, Minervino, and Andria. The choice of location not only enhances the visual appeal of the series but also adds a unique cultural context to the narrative. The landscapes of Puglia serve as a silent character in the story, reflecting the beauty and complexity of the lives intertwined within its borders.
As the series unfolds over four episodes, each lasting approximately 120 minutes, viewers can expect a gripping blend of crime, drama, and emotional depth. The complete schedule for the series is as follows: the first episode on May 5, the second on May 12, the third on May 19, and the finale on May 26, 2025. Each episode promises to delve deeper into the characters' lives and the societal issues they confront.
With its innovative approach to storytelling and character development, "Gerri" not only introduces a new police inspector to the screen but also challenges stereotypes associated with Roma culture. Beranek emphasizes the importance of portraying Gerri as a complex individual rather than a mere stereotype, stating, "The word 'rom' means man; it's one of the most peaceful cultures that exist. If everyone thought like that, there would probably be very few wars." This sentiment resonates throughout the series as it seeks to humanize its characters and explore the intricacies of their lives.
As audiences tune in for the premiere tonight, "Gerri" sets the stage for a series that promises to engage viewers with its rich narratives and relatable characters. The combination of crime, emotional struggles, and cultural exploration makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
In summary, the launch of "Gerri" on Rai 1 is not just the debut of a new crime series; it's an invitation to explore the depths of human experience through the lens of law enforcement. With its talented cast, captivating storylines, and stunning visuals, "Gerri" is poised to become a significant addition to Italian television.
