Fireworks ending explained: Revisiting the 2023 Italian drama adaptation and its heartbreaking true story

Fireworks is an Italian film that was released on March 23, 2023. The romantic drama film was Giuseppe Fiorello's directorial debut in the feature film space. Fiorello also wrote the script with Andrea Cedrola and Carlo Salsa. Here's the official synopsis, per Letterboxd,

A sunbaked Sicilian town in the summer of 1982 provides the vivid backdrop to this tender romantic drama about two teenagers who fall in love, but much to the disapproval of those around them. Gianni is a handsome but shy teen who works as a car mechanic at his stepfather’s garage but is mercilessly taunted by the macho townsmen for being a homosexual. With his family life no better, Gianni withdraws into himself until one day he meets Nino, a curly-haired boy with an infectious smile. As the two become close and fall in love, the moral rumblings from their families and neighbors begin to erupt. With all against them, the boys decide to make a stand.

Let's take a look at its ending and the true story behind it.

What is the plot of Fireworks?

A still from Fireworks (Image via Melbourne Queer Film Festival)

Originally titled Stranizza d'amuri, Fireworks is inspired by the real-life 1980 double murders that took place in Giarre, Italy, and hence they are also referred to as the Giarre murder. The film takes place in 1982 in Sicily and focuses on Gianni Accordino, a 17-year-old boy who is constantly bullied because he is gay. Gianni finds solace in his mother, who supports him. He meets Nino, who is 16, and the two fall in love. They have to keep their relationship secret because of the societal situation.

How does Fireworks end?

Fireworks ends on note that's a bit different from the real-life tragedy it takes inspiration from. The film digs deep into the relationship of two gay boys at a time when being gay was seen as a crime. They want to spend their lives together but are aware of the gloominess that is ahead of them. The makers, however, stay away from the grimness as the film's story focuses more on the chemistry of Gianni and Nino.

Toward the end, they talk about love in front of the townspeople and leave on a motorcycle. We see them having a fun time at a pool in the company of one another. As they share a tender moment, the film ends on an ambiguous note. This leaves the viewers wondering what would happen, given the knowledge of the real-life tragedy.

In real life, the two boys disappeared and their bodies were found two weeks later, holding hands even in death. Gunshots were discovered on their heads, and it was reported that they were killed by their family members and town folks. The nephew of one of the victims confessed to the killings but later retracted their comments. This case led to the creation of Arcigay, an LGBTQ organization in Italy. It is also considered to be the case that kickstarted the queer movement in the country. In 2022, the two boys were given a memorial plaque at the town library entrance in Giarre.

What do you think of Fireworks ending?