1/15/06

Stand Up - Episode 12

Costa Rica, one of Earth's last paradises, embodies Pura Vida, which translates to pure life. Local Javier Quiros has fully embraced this philosophy. After leaving the capital, San Jose, he found his haven in Playa Negra, a secluded beach where his days revolve around surfing, hanging out with his dog, cruising on his motorcycle, and sharing a beer with friends while watching the sun paint the sky in hues of orange and pink as it sets over the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. Pura Vida is the essence of Costa Rica, a way of life characterized by a profound appreciation for simply being alive and experiencing the world's wonders. The country, with its breathtaking landscapes, lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, beckons visitors to connect with nature, slow down, and revel in the present moment.

As Gip and Miki cross the border into Nicaragua, they cross paths with a friendly Italian gentleman. Sharing jokes and clinking beer bottles, their connection with the man takes an unexpected turn. He reveals himself to be Manlio Grillo, one of the infamous "terrorists" linked to the Primavalle case in Italy, who had escaped from Italy 28 years ago. This revelation prompts an exclusive and rare interview with Manlio Grillo, providing a unique perspective on his life, past, and the decisions that led him to seek refuge far from his homeland.

Sky, the channel that airs Stand Up, decides not to broadcast the interview, deeming it too sensitive for their audience. Instead, they replace it with a segment filmed in Los Angeles several months earlier, which explores the topic of marijuana legalization.

The encounter with Manlio Grillo and the subsequent unexpected interview leaves Gip and Miki with a once-in-a-lifetime story and a fresh perspective on the complex and multifaceted nature of life's journeys, whether surfing on the pristine shores of Costa Rica, sipping beer with newfound friends, or conducting a candid conversation with a man whose past is shrouded in controversy.