Crowd-funding Sought For Doc About Gay Man Who Set Himself On Fire At The Vatican

Self-immolation (setting yourself on fire) can be a powerful political act – such as with buddhist monks during the Vietnam era, or the Arab Spring starting with Mohamed Bouazizi setting himself alight – however Alfredo Ormando’s actions have largely been forgotten. Now a documentary is trying to set that right, and is hoping to raise  $50,000 via KickStarter to tell the story.

The film, Alfredo’s Fire, is ‘a powerful and timely documentary that tells the untold story of Alfredo Ormando, a gay Italian writer who set himself on fire at the Vatican to protest the Church’s condemnation of homosexuality.

‘Shaped by Alfredo’s own writings, as well as rich cinematography, and provocative interviews with his family, friends and intimate companions, the film reveals Alfredo’s longing and struggle to reconcile his faith and sexuality.’

Alfredo set himself on fire in Saint Peter’s Square in Rome on 13th January 1998, and died 11 days later in hospital.

The hope is to raise the money and have the film ready for Italy’s National Pride this June, which this year is in Alfredo’s hometown of Palermo.

Head over to KickStarter to find out more.