New York is preparing to turn the spotlight on one of the most extraordinary figures in Italian-American history: AMadeo Peter Giannini, the visionary son of Italian immigrants who transformed the U.S. banking system and helped redefine the American dream.
Next May 7th, the COMITES New York, in collaboration with the Zerilli-Marimò Italian House from the New York University and the Grow Together Foundation, will present a special screening of the award-winning documentary A Little Fellow: The Legacy of AP Giannini, directed by Davide Fiore.
The event is part of the prestigious context of the exhibition “You Can't Die for a Dollar”: The Revolution of Amadeo Peter Giannini, It can be visited at the Casa Italiana until June 1, 2026, and represents an important opportunity to rediscover a figure who left an indelible mark on American economic and social history.
The evening will open with the introduction of Stefano Albertini, Director of Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimò, followed by a screening of the film. Making the event even more significant will be the presence of director Davide Fiore, who has traveled especially from Los Angeles, who will meet the audience during a question and answer session moderated by Ornella Fado, Vice President of COMITES New York and President of the Communications and Events Commission.
The documentary tells the extraordinary story of Giannini, founder of the Bank of Italy, which later became Bank of America, which revolutionized the banking sector by making credit accessible to the working classes, immigrants and small entrepreneurs, at a time when the financial system was reserved exclusively for the elite.
His innovative vision emerged forcefully after the devastating San Francisco earthquake of 1906, when Giannini actively supported the city's reconstruction by offering immediate loans to residents and businesses. His contributions also fostered the development of strategic American industries, including Hollywood, cementing his role as a pioneer of economic progress.
Through rare archive images, testimonies and intense narration, A Little Fellow It paints a portrait of a man who knew how to transform his Italian cultural heritage into a driving force for American innovation.
The international success of the documentary, awarded at the Cinequest and to the Dances With Films With the Audience Award for Best Documentary, it confirms the global interest in a figure who symbolizes resilience, courage, and vision.
“This event is not only a celebration of an extraordinary Italian-American history, but it also invites us to reflect on the importance of our roots and the value of vision.,” said Ornella Fado. “At COMITES New York, we work every day to tell stories that unite, inspire, and enhance our community.”
With this initiative, COMITES New York strengthens its commitment to promoting Italian culture abroad, offering the community a moment of remembrance, pride, and connection with those Italian excellences that helped build modern America.
AP Giannini's story demonstrates even today how Italian roots can be transformed into global leadership, innovation, and progress. A powerful lesson, especially for new generations of Italians around the world.
