John Belardo has been a collaborator on The Piccirilli Factor since its inception. As a sculptor himself and a Piccirilli expert, he provided invaluable support, helping the project evolve from a modest 30-minute film into a comprehensive one-hour documentary. His reward was being among the first handful of friends to see the final cut; mine was receiving his thoughtful feedback after the screening. This is what John had to say about The Piccirilli Factor: Eduardo Montes-Bradley.
Twenty years ago, as a young sculptor working in the Bronx, I was introduced to the remarkable story of the Piccirilli brothers. It proved to be a perfect connection: a sculptor, the Bronx, and my Italian heritage that shaped so much of the area’s culture. This introduction came through Bill and Mary Carol, who invited me to a talk they were giving at Lehman College, CUNY. During that event, I was asked to share my thoughts on the brothers’ story, which sparked what would become a deep, years-long fascination with an era defined by some of the greatest achievements in American art.
Eduardo’s research has been nothing short of revelatory. He has not only filled in crucial gaps in the Piccirillis’ history but also unraveled the mysteries that had surrounded their lives and work for so long. The documentary he has created beautifully revives the time, context, and spirit of the period, capturing the aspirational romance of a young America emerging on the world stage. Listening to Attilio’s voice was an especially poignant experience—like receiving a call from a beloved uncle. His thoughtful, sincere words are paired with evocative images that reflect the legacy of his life’s work.
This film masterfully portrays the enduring significance of the Piccirilli family’s contributions with both subtlety and sensitivity. The careful weaving together of historic and contemporary visuals, alongside the sounds of their time, does true justice to the work of this extraordinary family. It is a fitting tribute to their artistic legacy and the era they helped shape.
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