Ballata Femmenella

From Queertactics

Curtain up for seven unique and dazzling femmenelle, who take centre stage alongside Naples itself—offering an intimate glimpse into one of Europe’s oldest trans communities. With great passion, wit and expressive flair, they speak about the very different paths through which they have shaped their female identities: about their families of origin, which remain deeply important to them, their histories, and lives lived between tradition and the present day.

Their stories encompass exclusion, discrimination, violence and loneliness—but also determination, strength, resilience and affection. Rather than relying on static talking-head interviews, the film unfolds as an opulent, vibrant portrait: each of these ladiez stages herself in Naples’ urban landscape with charisma, splendour and more than a touch of drama.

The film weaves together centuries-old stories of the femmenelle with contemporary political and social struggles—and celebrates an exceptional community.