Potentially Dangerous

When it was a crime to be Italian

Potentially Dangerous uncovers the untold story of Italian immigrants in the United States during World War II. Despite many having lived in the U.S. for decades – raising American-born children and even having sons serving in the U.S. military – approximately 600,000 Italian residents were classified as “Enemy Aliens.” This designation led to severe restrictions: curfews, workplace bans, forced evacuations from homes and communities, and internment in camps. The film delves into the profound impact these actions had on Italian-American communities, effects that resonate to this day. Through personal narratives and historical analysis, Potentially Dangerous sheds light on a dark chapter of American history, encouraging reflection on issues of prejudice, national security and the protection of individual rights.

Director: Zach Baliva
Executive Producer: John Turturro
Produced by: Noah Readhead, Zach Baliva
Release Date: October 23, 2021

Awards/Festival Selections:

  • Winner – 2021 Russo Bros. Italian American Film Forum
  • Best Documentary – 2022 Ferrara Film Festival
  • Best Documentary – 2022 Little Rock Italian Film Festival
  • Official Selection – 2022 Boston International Film Festival
  • Semi-Finalist – 2022 Flickers Rhode Island Film Festival

Watch the Trailer

Boston International Film Festival Attendee

“A powerful and necessary documentary that reveals a forgotten history with profound contemporary relevance.”

Ferrara Film Festival Audience Member

“An eye-opening film that challenges us to confront past injustices and learn from them.”

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