Scorsese is reportedly planning a documentary about ancient shipwrecks in the Mediterranean Sea. This project will lead him to Polizzi Generosa, a quaint town on the island of Sicily, the birthplace of his paternal grandparents.

The documentary will be based on the research of Lisa Briggs, an archaeologist and professor at Cranfield University in England. Briggs specializes in utilizing DNA analysis and other tools to examine artifacts found at shipwreck sites, uncovering new insights into the ancient history of maritime trade.

This documentary aims to delve into the details of the ships and their cargo while narrating the stories of the sailors aboard.

Sicily’s regional adviser for cultural heritage, Francesco Paolo Scarpinato, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating to the Italian news agency ANSA, “We welcomed the initiative with enthusiasm.” He also mentioned that Sicilian authorities would provide access to all relevant sites and archaeological parks for the director.

According to Variety, the documentary will be filmed along the Sicilian coast, including locations such as the port of Trapani, the ancient Phoenician colony of Mozia, and Polizzi Generosa. The mountainous town, home to just over 3,000 residents, is not only the birthplace of Scorsese’s grandparents, Teresa and Francesco, but also of Dolce & Gabbana co-founder Domenico Dolce.

While little is known about the documentary’s release date, sources have informed Variety that “filming is expected to begin this summer,” with Chad Verdi, known for “The Irishman,” joining the production team.

Scorsese will produce the documentary through Sikelia Productions in collaboration with the Sicilian Heritage Department.

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