Luca Perito Reflects on Directing ‘Ciao, Mama’ and Johnny Wactor

Filmmaker Luca Perito shared insights into his directorial debut with the film ‘Ciao, Mama’ and paid tribute to the late actor Johnny Wactor, known for his role in *General Hospital*. The film, inspired by personal family experiences, marks a significant moment in Perito’s artistic journey, especially following Wactor’s untimely passing.

Reflecting on his motivation, Perito recounted a pivotal moment in 2016 when his mother was diagnosed with cancer. Living in Los Angeles at the time, he grappled with feelings of helplessness. He described the surreal nature of confronting his mother’s illness, which prompted him to write a ten-page one-act play. “I remember receiving a call after her first chemotherapy appointment. I felt more confused than before,” he said. This play eventually evolved into ‘Ciao, Mama’.

After a brief run of the one-act play at the Stuart Rogers Studio in Los Angeles, Perito later expanded it into a full-length version. His plans to stage the play were interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In March 2020, he moved back to New York, where he stayed with his parents in Delaware. During this period, he immersed himself in films and literature, eventually reigniting his desire to create.

The idea for ‘Ciao, Mama’ began to take shape after reading Ryan Holiday’s book *Ego is the Enemy*. “I felt an urgent need to make something,” he recalled. After a brainstorming session fueled by coffee, he realized he had already written the foundation of the film. He reached out to Micah Joe Parker, who agreed to join the project, and thus the film’s journey began.

The title transition from ‘American Sognare’ to ‘Ciao, Mama’ was a significant decision. Perito explained that many struggled with the original title’s pronunciation, which became more evident following Wactor’s death. “We noticed news reporters mispronouncing it,” he noted. A suggestion from Parker led to the new title, which Perito initially resisted but soon embraced.

The film holds profound personal significance for Perito. He drew parallels between his life and that of the film’s main character, Tony, who experiences challenges in his relationship with his mother. “This project became sacred after Johnny passed,” he expressed. “We felt a responsibility to honor his legacy.”

Working with Wactor was a transformative experience for Perito. “He was diligent and created a positive atmosphere on set,” he shared. Wactor’s ability to balance his roles as both an actor and producer impressed Perito, who noted how Wactor and Parker switched seamlessly between their responsibilities.

The cast’s performance exceeded Perito’s expectations, especially given the limited rehearsal time. “They delivered outstanding performances in just two or three takes,” he remarked. He credited his training at Stuart Rogers Studio for helping him communicate effectively with actors, a skill he found invaluable as a director.

Through this filmmaking process, Perito discovered his resilience. He likened the experience to facing overwhelming challenges, akin to the character Jon Snow in *Game of Thrones*. “Making an independent film on a tight budget is incredibly tough,” he stated, reflecting on the support he received from friends and collaborators.

The film premiered at the American Theater in Charleston, South Carolina, a significant milestone for Perito. Despite his personal challenges in watching the film, he was grateful that Wactor’s family attended the screening. “It was crucial for me that they liked it,” he said, recalling a moment with Wactor’s brother that felt deeply connected to the late actor.

Looking ahead, Perito hopes audiences will take away a meaningful message from ‘Ciao, Mama’. “Goodbyes are not the end. Those who leave a lasting impression will always be a part of you,” he emphasized. The film aims to provoke thought and evoke a range of emotions, capturing the essence of human connection and memory.

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