The story of Dino Pedriali offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of twentieth-century Italian photographic art and culture. Pedriali, known for being Pier Paolo Pasolini’s last photographer, immortalized the poet in vulnerable intimacy, shortly before his death in 1975. These images, captured in Pasolini’s home in Chia, have acquired historical and artistic significance profound, serving as a visual testimony of the final days of one of the most provocative figures in Italian culture. Corrado Rizza’s film further enriches the narrative, presenting the actor Pietro De Silva in the role of Pedriali. Through this cinematic representation, the audience is introduced to the complex dynamics of the photographer’s life and his significant influence on the art world. The director, using a series of interviews with eminent figures such as Achille Bonito Oliva and Raffaele Curi, as well as Pedriali’s son Tristano, unravels the narrative of Pedriali’s career, exploring his formative years, influences and significant collaborations. In addition to his relationship with Pasolini, Pedriali boasts an impressive list of portrait subjects, including icons such as Man Ray, Federico Fellini and Rudolf Nureyev. These encounters not only amplify his stature in the photographic landscape, but also illustrate his ability to capture the essence of figures who defined an era. His time in New York and visits to Andy Warhol’s Factory add another layer of internationality and contemporaneity to his work.

IThe comparison of Pedriali with Caravaggio, made by the German art critic Peter Weiermair, not only underlines the drama and emotional intensity of his works, but also places Pedriali within a deeply rooted Italian artistic tradition, confirming his status of “Caravaggio of twentieth century photography”. This synopsis not only promises a detailed exploration of an extraordinary artist but also invites reflection on photography’s ability to document, express and provoke.