Dec. 09, 2020|Italy|120 Min.|TV-14
Genre: Adventure;Comedy;Drama
Description: In 1968, engineer Giorgio Rosa founded an independent state named “The Isle of Roses” off the coast of Rimini. He built it on a platform outside Italy’s territorial waters, with Esperanto as its official language. The Italian government disapproved, perceiving the micronation as a scheme to avoid paying taxes on revenue generated by tourists and visitors.
Italian director Sydney Sibilia’s film, *The Incredible Story of Rose Island*, recounts the tale of the Republic of Roses. This independent state was established by Giorgio Rosa on a concrete platform he constructed himself in international waters. The film also highlights the Italian Republic’s sole act of invasion.
The story begins in Strasbourg in November 1968, where Rosa presents his case at the European Court, which resolves disputes between states. Through flashbacks, the audience learns about his journey. In 1968, Rosa, a recently graduated engineer in Bologna, Italy, combined his passion for construction and independence with a disregard for the law. He envisioned creating his own state, a place to achieve freedom.
Rosa chose a spot outside Italian territory, off the coast of Rimini, to build his island. The film portrays his struggle against the Italian government’s outdated bureaucracy, presenting it as a clash between authority and Rosa’s libertarian dream. Using humor and an engaging soundtrack, the movie emphasizes the historical significance of one man’s defiance against the government.
However, the film takes some creative liberties. For instance, it depicts Rosa and his friend building Rose Island quickly, while in reality, the project took a decade. Construction began in 1958 and concluded in 1967. During this time, Rosa faced numerous challenges, including orders from Italian authorities to halt construction. Despite setbacks, he persisted, securing support from local port authorities and eventually restarting the project in 1964.
By 1966, Rosa had constructed a reinforced concrete platform spanning 400 square meters, along with walls and a landing point called Porto Verde. Although the initial plan included five floors, only one was completed. The island opened to the public on August 20, 1967, becoming an instant tourist attraction. The following year, it was declared an independent state with Giorgio Rosa as its leader.
The film celebrates Rosa’s ingenuity and determination, honoring the legacy of Rose Island while blending historical events with creative storytelling.
Cast director: Sydney Sibilia
Cast actor: Elio Germano, Matilda De Angelis, Fabrizio Bentivoglio, François Cluzet, Tom Wlaschiha, Luca Zingaretti, Leonardo Lidi, Fabrizio Rongione, Marco Pancrazi, Andrea Pennacchi
Original name: L’incredibile storia dell’isola delle rose