Sicilian Dreams: The Heartfelt Journey of “Sicilian Holiday”

In a cinematic landscape often dominated by formulaic romances, “Sicilian Holiday” emerges as a breath of fresh Mediterranean air. This enchanting film, directed by Michela Scolari, offers a profound narrative set against the stunning backdrop of Sicily.

“Sicilian Holiday” is a tribute to Sicily as home, with Mia, played by Lilly Englert, a washed-up actress from New York, traveling to Sicily to find herself again. She meets local sculptor Nino, played by Francesco Leone, and a love sparks between the two. Throughout the film, Mia and Nino’s love is challenged by family, culture, and distance.

Scolari was inspired by her own experiences and awe of Sicily, crafting a story that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. “The heroines of the novels inspired by the Italian Grand Tour are my main inspirations,” Scolari explains. “Forster’s Lucy, James’s Isabel, their iconic adventures in Italy. But my very life in NYC is my inspiration, a younger version of me apparently living the American Dream but secretly dreaming to go back to Italy.” Scolari’s deep connection to Sicily is clearly shown throughout the film, showcasing an authentic respect for the culture and language of the island.

At the core of “Sicilian Holiday” is Englert, whose portrayal of Mia is nothing short of captivating—the audience can really feel Mia’s loss of herself and eventual discovery of love and happiness. Englert’s preparation for the role was meticulous, spanning months in advance. “I prepared for the role by creating a detailed back story of Mia’s life. I also journaled as Mia for a few months before shooting and found this very helpful,” she shares. This dedication to her character is evident in her nuanced performance, where vulnerability and strength intertwine seamlessly.

Englert’s connection to Mia was instant and personal, relating her experiences in Italy and as an actress. “When I read ‘Sicilian Holiday,’ I felt like I knew Mia. I know how it feels to be lost and the courage it takes to be vulnerable. I know how cruel the acting world can be and how quickly doors can close,” she reflects. Englert’s intimate understanding as well as her love for Italy, her home for nine years, lent an additional layer of authenticity to her portrayal.

The Sicilian setting plays a crucial role in the film, almost becoming a character in its own right. From the historic setting, to the language, the music, and the values, Scolari’s vision of Sicily is one of true colors and eternal passion. “Sicily is my childhood. Metaphorically at least. I grew up reading the great Sicilian Authors, from Pirandello to Sciasca, from Quasimodo to Verga,” Scolari says.

This rich cultural backdrop is meticulously represented, with the cast and crew immersing themselves in local life to ensure an authentic depiction. The audience can feel the palpable love of Sicilian culture especially near the end of the film, where our main characters sing an old Sicilian folk song. While most of the cast may not have grown up in Sicily, they learned to love the culture in preparation and filming of “Sicilian Holiday”, conversing with the locals and visiting parts of the area with Scolari guiding them.

Englert describes the experience of filming in Sicily as dreamlike, with each facet of the island feeling ethereal. “Like Mia, I felt enchanted by our surroundings and utterly in awe so that part of my performance came very naturally,” she explains. This awe is clearly translated through the unique aesthetic of the film, each landscape, color, and sound perfectly representative of Sicily.

One of the film’s most remarkable aspects is the camaraderie among the cast and crew. “Michela and Adam created an environment where the cast and crew felt like one big family. We all stayed in the same hotel, ate every meal together, trusted each other and believed ferociously in Michela’s vision,” Englert recalls. When watching the film, it feels as if the cast has been friends for a long time. Beyond the natural connection of Englert and Leone’s characters, there is a recurring feeling of true love with family and friends.

“Sicilian Holiday” is more than just a film; it is a fantasy brought to life. “Now, more than ever, we are all in need to dream. Everyone needs to believe there is a special place in the world where love, respect, and passion for life (and each other) still exist. ‘Sicilian Holiday’ is for all daydreamers around the world,” Scolari asserts.

As “Sicilian Holiday” garners acclaim, both Scolari and Englert have exciting projects on the horizon. Scolari hints at a possible sequel, exploring what Mia’s newfound self-discovery means for her future. Englert, meanwhile, is set to star in an Italian psychological thriller and is actively involved in her New York-based theatre company.

“Sicilian Holiday” is a celebration of life, love, and the beauty of Sicily. It is a reminder that sometimes, the most profound journeys are the ones we take within ourselves. For audiences, it is a chance to dream, to believe, and to be enchanted by the magic of Sicily.