«Domino» by Jeffrey Louis Salkilld, Alessia Chinazzo (May)

A love letter to the James Bond saga from the Italian-British directing duo of Alessia May and Jeffrey Louis Salkilld, “Domino: The Untold Origin Story” is the opportunity to discover the true (perhaps) story of one of the most iconic Bond girls of the series – Domino.

The choice of the mountainous region above Venice as the main setting offers a visually breathtaking backdrop, which the directors have skillfully exploited to create a sense of isolation and impending danger. This alpine setting represents an interesting contrast to the usual urban and glamorous settings typical of spy films. It gives the narrative an almost metaphorical quality, where the wild and untamed nature becomes a mirror of the conflicting forces within the protagonists’ souls. In this way, the Italian-British crew has created a unique and impactful setting that becomes almost a character in itself, amplifying the emotions and challenges faced by the protagonists on screen.

Portrayed by May herself, who imbues the character with an enigmatic and ambivalent charm, Domino, a spy with an overbearing father, is paired with an understated and contemplative Bond, played by Venetian actor Davide Mariella. A beauty with a tragic past, Domino’s role in the official Bond series has been a source of intrigue and speculation, and in “Domino: The Untold Origin Story”, the directors delve into the formative stages of this captivating relationship, offering a new perspective on the dynamics between the legendary secret agent and his counterpart.
Abandoning the traditional timeline, the film takes us on a fascinating journey into the past, uncovering the unspeakable story of their fateful first encounter. In addition to the gripping spy plot, the film also plays with the ambiguity of the name “Domino” – both as a reference to the iconic character and to the strategic game piece, which will resurface in the plot as a key element of a puzzle to be solved by the protagonist. This device adds depth and intrigue to the narrative, reflecting the intricate web of secrets and deceptions at the heart of the story.

The result, rich in detail and charm, is a contemporary reimagining of the James Bond concept that seamlessly blends the classic tropes with innovative storytelling and pays homage to the franchise’s rich legacy while offering a new perspective on its beloved characters.
A tribute that masterfully combines romance, seduction, and Bond’s flair for intrigue and power struggles, leaving the audience eager to discover more behind-the-scenes of the characters and the timeless mysteries of the 007 world.