Leone Balduzzir’s experience with short advertising films comes in handy for his debut. It feels like a feature-length advert for the Piaggio Ape: a three-wheeled and light commercial vespa-like vehicle popular for its compact size, and for its ability to fly through Italy’s narrow streets (“ape” is Italian for “bee”). Balduzzi’s documentary follows a group of youngsters living in southern Italy. They share a deep love for these quirky little trikes, while also struggling with the limitations of the small towns where they live.

The peculiar vehicles are the initial focus of the film. Then they morph into more of a stage piece as the story unfolds. It all begins as a back-to-basics documentary, as the director interviews a group of teenagers from different cliques about their love for the Ape. The interviews digress into conversations about relationships, sex, and Aids, with many of the youngsters showing their naivety. The director is just testing them because the real guise of the interviews is the casting for his new film: a teenage love story that tackles the conversation around Aids, with an attempt at jest. The teenagers become excited at the possibility of starring in a film, even if it’s just a supporting role (after all, a film is still a film). Their enthusiasm quickly spreads throughout the townspeople.

The protagonists are whittled down to a select few though, with the primary story featuring a young teenage boy who meets a teenage girl (the classic coming-of-age device) but becomes increasingly worried about potentially catching Aids, and eventually opts to distance himself from her. Supporting stories also flutter underneath the film, such as an upcoming Ape race and a playful shooting incident gone wrong. The crux of the film are the teenagers and their gorgeous Italian towns, with few opportunities to offer them. Sting like a Bee’s whimsical nature and offbeat qualities shine through. Ultimately, however, the movie collapses under its own weight as it thinly spreads its narrative over too many topics and characters.

Humour is a big component. The naivety of the characters is affecting and enjoyable to watch. The inquisitive nature of young people thirsty for adventure is a savoury coming-of-age ingredient. Then there’s the breathtaking cinematography of the Italian countryside. The landscapes enhance the storytelling. They allow characters and viewers alike to reclaim their childhood, and to experience a magical summer of adventure and mystery.

While marketed a documentary, Sting Like a Bee doesn’t feel authentic enough to be classed as such. At times, it feels like a mockumentary, or a parody. And it never feels at home, lacking fluidity and never truly knowing what it wants to be/go. A hybrid documentary without a clear identity. More cross-contamination than cross-pollination. A unconventional little film with a lighthearted premise, fun and colourful in its presentation, but without much substance.

Sting Like a Bee premieres in the 32nd edition of Raindance. Expect a lot of buzz and little stinging.

Key Message: Does the cool car really get the girl in the movies?