"Romanzo Criminale" is an Italian crime drama that originally began as a novel by Giancarlo De Cataldo. The story is set in Rome during the 1970s and 1980s, focusing on the rise and fall of a criminal gang known as the Banda della Magliana. The narrative explores themes of power, corruption, and the impact of organized crime on society. The novel was adapted into a successful television series that aired from 2008 to 2010, gaining critical acclaim for its storytelling and character development. The series highlights the gang's interactions with law enforcement and rival factions, showcasing the complexities of crime and morality in Italy.