Netflix has released Rose Island, based on the true story of an independent Italian micro-state from the 1960s

The story of Rose Island is a curious and little known one. Here’s the Netflix summary:

Giorgio, a gifted yet misunderstood engineer has hit rock bottom — he’s been fired from his job, his parents won’t speak to him, and the love of his life has ditched him after he accidentally gets them both arrested (long story…). Sick of the stuffy rules of Italian society of the late ’60s, Giorgio hatches an impossible plan; he will build his own island in the middle of the sea. Joined by a team of revolutionaries and outcasts, the Republic of Rose Island is founded, independence is declared and Giorgio is appointed President. However, team values and resilience are tested, as the Italian Prime Minister decides Giorgio’s idealistic island is Italy’s Enemy Number One. Directed by Sydney Sibilia (The Smetto Quando Voglio trilogy) and produced by Grøenlandia (The First King), this is a hilarious drama with a rebellious heart and is based on the incredible true story.

The BBC has dug into the true story here, but be warned, this may well constitute spoilers. Suffice it to say the real island was artificially constructed off the Rimini coast, and had its own restaurant, bar, shop and post office. Not bad in a metal structure 400 sq metres in size! The story reminds us of the tails of pirate radio, with offshore communities set up in the name of freedom and youth, and we look forward to watching this. You can see the official trailer, and today there’s been an interesting behind the scenes released. Or just watch the film Netflix!