Targa Florio DVD Review: A Sicillian Dream

In this DVD, documentary-makers Francesco da Mosto and Alain de Cadenet retrace the past of the Targa Florio, an event that ran from 1906 through 1977 and became revered as one of motorsport's most iconic races, the gruelling spectacle enhanced by the romantic setting.

Part-documentary, part dramatic-retelling, the latter helps tell the story of the young, wealthy and motorsport-obsessed Vincenzo Florio, a charismatic figure who founded an event that would run for 70 years and had an everlasting effect on the island communities after its demise.

These dramatic retellings are also used to highlight some of the major moments through Targa Florio's history, redolently bringing the event back to life.

Watch as Da Mosto and De Cadenet take the reins of the latter's classic Alfa, re-tracing the route of the twisting and turning course that used the dramatic roads of the Sicilian landscape.

Meet some of the locals who regale them with tales of a bygone era - such as the story of when Baroness Maria Antonietta d'Avanzo arranged for Enzo Ferrari to be locked in a lift for 10 hours after he treacherously swapped components on their respective cars.

The Targa Florio's status grew, becoming less an exercise for enthusiasts but more a major marketing tool for manufacturers, turning it from a Sicilian affair to a worldwide spectacle, a "celebration of motorsport in the purest sense".

For both presenters, there is a personal element to the story, with Da Mosto having grown up idolising the Targa Florio, and De Cadenet having survived a ferocious accident in 1971.

An emotional De Cadenet vividly retells the story of the accident, aided by a dramatic re-telling, and the input of the son of the man who saved his life.

Featuring classic machinery, evocative stories and spectacular vistas, this documentary about one of motorsport's most theatrical but sadly defunct event is not to be missed.

A Sicilian Dream is available to buy on Duke Video's official website for £16.99.