Another 'Gomorrah' Spin-Off in Naples Draws Local Ire

With "Gomorrah: Origins" underway, locals voice their discontent over repetitive crime narratives overshadowing Naples' diverse culture.

As the latest spin-off of the Italian crime drama "Gomorrah" begins filming in Naples, the city's residents are questioning the portrayal of their home. A prequel, titled "Gomorrah: Origins," is currently shooting in the vibrant Spanish Quarter, exploring the origins of the notorious Camorra crime syndicate that has profoundly impacted the city.

In a bold statement, a banner fluttered across a narrow alley filled with shops selling traditional Nativity figurines, declaring, “Naples doesn’t support you anymore,” a direct jab at the relentless media fascination with the city's underworld.

This fascination originates from Roberto Saviano’s bestselling book, “Gomorrah,” which unveiled the gritty realities of the Neapolitan mafia back in 2006. Following the release of a successful film in 2008, the television series debuted in 2014 and ran for five action-packed seasons. The franchise has been further extended by two films in 2019: “The Immortal” and “Piranhas,” which delve into the lives of younger criminals.

However, a growing number of Neapolitans are expressing their frustration with being depicted solely as part of a violent narrative. Gennaro Di Virgilio, a local craftsman and fourth-generation owner of a Nativity shop, shares, “They filmed the first one, they filmed the second one. Basta.”

Amidst a tourism boom that has transformed Naples' reputation, drawing visitors to its renowned history and cuisine, residents feel the consistent focus on crime diminishes the full picture of their dynamic city. As Naples struggles with lingering issues of poverty and crime, many locals wish to be seen beyond the lens of "malavita"—the lawless life that has monopolized the media portrayal of their home. This sentiment highlights the ongoing debate over cultural representation in an era where narratives can dictate perceptions.