Valetti. The Forgotten Hero

(IT, 2013, HD/Super8, 63’)

The documentary "Valetti. The Forgotten Hero" by H12 FILM retraces the brief and intense sporting career of Giovanni Valetti, the 1938 winner of both the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de Suisse. In 1939 he did it again in the Giro, beating a certain Gino Bartali. Then came war, dropping out of pro cycling and going back to the factory as a simple FIAT worker. Giovanni Valetti, an ace of cycling in the Thirties who, despite incredible victories and achievements, fell into a gray area of collective memory. A champion who knew how to speak with actions during a time of sweat, toil and low wages. And who also kept quiet with dignity. One big look at the Thirties in Italy and at the most beloved sport, cycling, which delights crowds with its unique charm and its larger-than-life champions.

“The Olympic Piedmont laborer who one day kicked Bartali’s ass”
(Orio Vergani)

Made with support from the Torino Piedmont Film Commission and the Piedmont Region (Piedmont Doc Film Fund - Regional Fund for the documentary - development December 2012 - "Piemonte Doc Film Fund Under 30", under the agreement between the Department of Youth of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and the Piedmont Region)

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