Tarantism Revisited

Set in 1959, the film depicts women dressed in white engaging in ecstatic dances within a small chapel. Their movements include jumping, rolling on the ground, and climbing the altar, all part of a ritualistic response to what they believe to be spider bites. This vivid imagery serves as a focal point for the documentary, highlighting an intriguing aspect of Italian folklore.

The documentary showcases the efforts of Italian anthropologists who ventured to southern Italy, armed with tape recorders and cameras. They documented this fascinating cultural phenomenon, offering insights into the rituals surrounding tarantism. The film not only captures the essence of these rituals but also provides a historical context for the anthropological study of such practices.