SANPA: SINS OF THE SAVIOR
Cult: Italian Style
Netflix’s Italian original docuseries SanPa: Sins of the Savior explores the story of Vincenzo Muccioli, the founder of the controversial rehab community of San Patrignano. The commune was established in 1978 as large quantities of heroin circulated throughout Italy. Drugs ravaged the country, and Muccioli’s organization seemed to be the answer for marginalized addicts.
The compound located in Coriano resembled a small town and included police and prison. If you build it, they will come, and they did. Thousands arrived looking for salvation. The docuseries relies on historical film footage and present-day interviews with former residents and those who worked alongside Muccioli. His driver and bodyguard, Walter DeLugo, shares, “I was with him day and night. Armed. So, I wasn’t just anyone.”
Muccioli was charismatic with an allure typical of other cult leaders. He was famous, influential and took advantage of the moral panic that engulfed Italy. In Part 1 of the series, he addresses a group of junkies, “There are many other rehab centers where you can come and go as you please. You know the deal in San Patrignano. If you come here, you’re here to stay. If you want to give up and go back, you can’t.” His sermon is direct and threatening, “So I’m not going to let you leave. And if you want to leave no matter what, then guys…that’s when I will isolate you.”
The docuseries delves into the rise of Muccioli’s national prominence and the nefarious methods used at the SanPa rehab center. Regarded as a savior, charlatan, wizard, psychic, spiritualist, and even saint, all seemed to be on track for Muccioli until allegations of violence, torture, and murder surfaced.
The five-part historical series directed by Cosima Spender has maintained a top 10 spot on Netflix’s most-watched programs in Italy. In Italian with English subtitles, SanPa: Sins of the Savior is now streaming globally.
