As Italy prepares to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the Liberation, a new miniseries titled Fuochi d’artificio is set to air on Rai 1, bringing a unique perspective to the Second World War. Debuting on April 25, 2025, the series tells the story of four children who, in 1944, take on the mantle of heroes in their quest to end the war and reunite with their families.
Fuochi d’artificio, based on the novel by Andrea Bouchard, follows the adventures of Marta, Davide, Sara, and Marco, four friends aged between 12 and 13, living in the picturesque yet tumultuous Piedmontese Alps. The children, motivated by a desire to return to a peaceful life and reconnect with their loved ones, decide to assist the partisans in their fight against fascism. They cleverly assume the identity of Sandokan, a legendary rebel, using their youth to evade suspicion while aiding in the resistance.
Under the direction of Susanna Nicchiarelli, who marks her debut in television directing, Fuochi d’artificio aims to present a narrative that resonates across generations. Nicchiarelli noted her inspiration from classic Italian cinema, particularly mentioning the beloved adaptation of Pinocchio by Luigi Comencini, which combined fantasy with moral lessons. “I want to create a popular story about the Resistance that can speak to children, parents, and grandparents alike,” she remarked.
The cast features a mix of young talents making their screen debuts, including Anna Losano as Marta, the brave youngest member of the group; Lucas Charles Brucini as Davide, the leader; Lorenzo Enrico as Marco, and Carlotta Dosi as Sara. Carlo Signoris plays the role of Olga, the grandmother, while other notable cast members include Bebo Storti and Alessandro Tedeschi.
The series, produced by Fandango-Matrioska in collaboration with Rai Fiction, will be broadcast over three evenings. The first two episodes will air on April 15 and April 22, 2025, with the concluding episode coinciding with the Liberation anniversary on April 25. Additionally, viewers can catch the first two episodes, each running for 50 minutes, on RaiPlay starting April 13, 2025.
On its premiere night, Fuochi d’artificio faced off against other popular shows in the Italian television landscape. According to the Auditel ratings, the first episode attracted 3,522,000 viewers, capturing a 17.9% share of the audience, while the second episode garnered 2,602,000 viewers with a 16.2% share. This performance positioned Fuochi d’artificio ahead of competitors like Il Turco on Canale 5, which managed 1,773,000 viewers, and Le Iene on Italia 1, with 1,685,000 viewers.
The success of Fuochi d’artificio reflects a growing interest in narratives that explore historical events through the eyes of younger characters. By focusing on children’s experiences during a turbulent time, the series not only entertains but also educates viewers about the resilience and courage displayed by the youth during the war.
The ratings battle on April 15 showcased Rai's dominance in prime-time television, with Fuochi d’artificio leading the pack. In the access prime time segment, Affari Tuoi also performed strongly, drawing 6,237,000 viewers (30% share), while L’Eredità attracted 4,188,000 viewers (28.7% share) during the presale slot.
This miniseries not only marks an important anniversary but also serves as a reminder of the impact of war on families and the lengths to which children will go to protect their loved ones. As audiences prepare to tune in, Fuochi d’artificio promises to deliver a compelling blend of adventure, history, and heart.
As the series unfolds, viewers can expect a rich tapestry of storytelling that combines the innocence of childhood with the harsh realities of war. The unique angle of seeing World War II through the eyes of children is expected to resonate with audiences, making Fuochi d’artificio a significant addition to Italian television.
With its engaging plot, dedicated cast, and historical significance, Fuochi d’artificio is set to become a memorable part of Italy's cultural narrative, inspiring conversations about history, bravery, and the importance of family.
As the premiere date approaches, the anticipation for Fuochi d’artificio continues to grow, promising to be a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of resistance and the enduring hope for peace.
