Name: Mixed by Erry
Genre: Comedy, History, Music
Released: 2023-03-02T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Luigi D'Oriano, Giuseppe Arena, Francesco Di Leva, Cristiana Dell'Anna, Adriano Pantaleo

The opening scene of Mixed by Erry is a neon-soaked montage of Naples in the ’80s, the hum of cassette decks filling the air as Enrico Frattasio’s fingers dance across the buttons of his tape recorder. It’s a love letter to an era and an underground culture that director Sydney Sibilia captures with infectious energy.

Based on real events, Mixed by Erry follows three Neapolitan brothers—Enrico (Luigi D’Oriano), Peppe (Giuseppe Arena), and Angelo (Adriano Pantaleo)—who turn a passion for music into a pirate mixtape empire. The film’s strength lies in its vibrant portrayal of the ’80s, from the synth-heavy soundtrack to the gritty, colorful streets of Naples. Sibilia’s direction is sharp, blending humor and drama with a keen eye for detail. The scene where Enrico first sets up his “Mixed by Erry” store is particularly engaging, capturing the excitement and desperation of starting something from nothing.

The film’s comedy shines in its portrayal of the brothers’ antics, especially their interactions with the criminal underworld. The tension between their legitimate business ambitions and their illegal operations creates a compelling narrative tension. Francesco Di Leva as Fortunato Ricciardi, the determined Guardia di Finanza captain, delivers a standout performance, bringing gravitas to the film’s more serious moments.

However, Mixed by Erry falters in its character development. While D’Oriano capably encompasses the heart of Enrico, the other characters often feel one-dimensional. Peppe and Angelo, despite their crucial roles, lack depth, and their motivations remain unclear. The film also struggles with pacing, particularly in its third act, where the legal proceedings and prison sequences drag on without sufficient narrative momentum.

The soundtrack is a highlight, expertly curated to evoke the era and enhance the emotional beats of the story. Tracks like “Vamos a la Playa” by Righeira and the original compositions by SJae add authenticity and energy to the film.

In the end, Mixed by Erry is a lively, entertaining look at an overlooked chapter in music history. It’s a film that will resonate with audiences who appreciate the nostalgia of the ’80s and the underdog stories of entrepreneurship, even if it stumbles in its execution.

MCM Score: 6.7/10 — craft 2 / story 1.5 / performances 2 / originality 1.5 / genre_fit 1.7

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In terms of themes, Mixed by Erry explores the intersection of passion, entrepreneurship, and the criminal underworld. It’s a story about dreams and the lengths people go to achieve them, even if it means operating outside the law. The film also touches on the power of music as a unifying force, bringing together people from different walks of life.

Comparatively, Mixed by Erry stands out among Italian comedies for its unique blend of humor and drama. It’s not without its flaws, but its heartfelt portrayal of the ’80s and the pirate mixtape culture makes it a standout film. For audiences who enjoy underdog stories, entrepreneurial tales, and the nostalgia of the ’80s, Mixed by Erry is a must-watch.

In the end, Mixed by Erry is a lively, entertaining look at an overlooked chapter in music history.