Netflix just launched released Supersex, a provocative exploration loosely inspired by the true story of the legendary pornstar Rocco Siffredi.
Alessandro Borghi stars as Siffredi in the series and captures his journey to the top of the adult entertainment industry.
Over four decades, the ‘Italian Stallion’ has made around 1,400 hardcore films.
However, Siffredi’s life off-screen was quite grim. No wonder Netflix jumped on the chance to dramatise it and ride that story for all its worth with its own TV adaptation.
But how faithful is the show to Rocco Siffredi’s real life? Here’s unravelling the true story behind Superex.
What is Netflix’s ‘Supersex’ about?
Supersex traces the life of Rocco Siffredi from his humble beginnings in Ortona, Italy, to his ascent as the marquee in the porn industry. The official synopsis for the series says it “is a story that questions the connection between porn and life, the power of sex, and its link with death”.
Creator Francesca Manieri embarks on a compelling narrative journey, shedding light on Siffredi’s family dynamics, his formative years, and the profound impact of his career choice on his personal life.
Manieri’s intention in crafting the series was to dissect masculinity through Siffredi’s lens, delving beyond the surface of the industry to explore the underlying complexities of human desire and identity. By portraying Siffredi’s evolution from an ordinary individual to a cultural icon, Supersex offers a deep reflection on the societal constructs that shape notions of manhood and femininity.
Who is Rocco Siffredi and what is the true story behind ‘Supersex’?
Rocco Siffredi, born Rocco Antonio Tano on May 4, 1964, emerged from the coastal town of Ortona amidst the backdrop of Italy’s Abruzzo region. The series authentically portrays the struggles of Siffredi’s early life, including the tragic loss of his brother and the challenges of familial hardship. Real-life anecdotes, such as his mother’s surprising support for his unconventional career path, add depth to the portrayal of Siffredi’s journey.
Siffredi’s fascination with the adult entertainment industry was sparked in adolescence, inspired by a magazine titled ‘Supersex’. His chance encounter with French porn star Gabriel Pontello catalysed his entry into the profession, leading to a meteoric rise to fame across Europe. However, his path to success was fraught with obstacles, including linguistic barriers and cultural differences upon his relocation to the United States.
The biographical series authentically captures pivotal moments in Siffredi’s career, including his retirement announcement at a Paris convention, albeit with a fictionalised twist. Despite periodic hiatuses from the industry, Siffredi’s enduring influence is underscored by his groundbreaking achievements, which include over 150 industry accolades and ventures beyond traditional adult entertainment.
Beyond his contributions to the porn industry, Siffredi’s legacy extends to his versatility as a performer and his resilience in navigating personal and professional challenges. His marriage to Rosa Caracciolo, alongside his introspective reflections on life’s choices, humanises the iconic figure of Rocco Siffredi.
As Supersex unfolds on Netflix, viewers are invited to contemplate the complexities of sexuality, identity and societal norms through Siffredi’s captivating narrative and almost blinding success.
‘Supersex’ is now available to stream on Netflix. Check out the trailer below:
(Header and feature image courtesy: IMDb/Supersex)
This article first appeared here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– Is Supersex based on a real story?
Yes, Supersex is inspired by the life of Rocco Siffredi, the legendary porn star. While the series takes creative liberties, it offers a dramatised portrayal of Siffredi’s journey from obscurity to fame in the adult entertainment industry.