DAYMAKER

a feature documentary

An immigrant armed with a pair of shears and a dream, Mario Tricoci transformed the beauty industry from the ground up — “Daymaker” is a powerful documentary portrait of a world-class hairstylist, visionary entrepreneur, and mentor who redefined what it means to make someone’s day.

synopsis

"Daymaker" explores the extraordinary life and legacy of Mario Tricoci — an immigrant dreamer turned beauty icon who transformed an industry and empowered generations of artists to follow in his footsteps.

Born in a small village Calabria, Mario began his journey with a pair of shears and a passion for craftsmanship. After immigrating to the United States as a teenager, he honed his skills in the heart of Chicago, eventually building one of the most recognized salon empires in the country. The film traces his rise from modest beginnings to the global stage, where his signature techniques and commitment to excellence earned him acclaim as a world-class hairstylist and visionary entrepreneur.

We follow Mario as he reflects on his storied career — from sweeping floors in a small barber shop in Italy to creating a brand that would define beauty for decades. We travel with him as he revisits the salons he helped build, reconnects with longtime collaborators, and revisits key moments that shaped his path: winning international hair competitions, pioneering the day spa concept, and founding Tricoci University to elevate the next generation of beauty professionals.

Through intimate interviews, rare archival footage, and immersive storytelling, the documentary captures Mario’s influence not only on style and trends, but on the cultural perception of beauty itself. More than a biography, "Tricoci" is a celebration of artistry, resilience, and reinvention — a tribute to a man who never stopped believing in the power of making someone’s day.

STYLE + TONE

“Daymaker” blends vérité realism with stylized cinematic storytelling to create a rich, emotionally resonant viewing experience.

Present-Day Footage

  • Intimate and observational: capturing Mario in his element — laughing with old friends, walking the halls of his salons, mentoring students, or hitting the golf course.

  • Visually rich locations: the texture of Italy’s countryside, the sleek modernism of his flagship salons, the energy of Tricoci University classrooms.

ANIMATION

Rather than traditional cinematic reenactments, we will employ a sophisticated, flowing animation style that evokes the spirit of the "sono io" t-shirts created by the Tricoci salons. This animation will bring key moments from Mario’s early life and rise to prominence to life in a unique, artistic way.

The animation will have a painterly quality, with fluid movement that reflects the vibrancy of Mario’s journey. The flowing strokes will represent the emotional highs and lows of his story, transforming into powerful visual moments that highlight his Italian roots, his challenges, and his triumphs. The style will have a timeless feel, fusing elegance with bold creativity.

Example Sceneslude:

  • A young Mario sweeping a barbershop in Italy

  • His arrival in America, and his journey to make a name for himself.

  • Backstage at international competitions, rendered with a sense of movement and excitement.

  • The early days of building his business alongside his wife, portrayed through an ever-evolving canvas that reflects their shared growth.

Archival

  • Rare photographs, home video, and press clippings will be woven in to ground the story in historical context.

STORY

Introduction: Opening Montage

The film opens with a dynamic montage showcasing Mario Tricoci’s iconic Tricoci Salons and Tricoci University, places where his legacy thrives. Clients and stylists interact, reflecting Mario’s belief in making people feel valued. The montage highlights his achievements — luxury salons, renowned education, and a life dedicated to empowering others.

The pace then slows as we shift to a quieter moment: Mario at home, with family, sharing memories of his early days in Italy, his passion for hair, and the dream that carried him across continents. His voice guides us into the narrative, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of his past, struggles, and triumphs.

This introduction establishes the three-act structure: Part I covers Mario’s beginnings and challenges; Part II focuses on his rise, business, and partnership with Cheryl; and Part III explores his legacy and personal reflections. Animation will fill in key moments of his story, linking past and present.

Part I: Humble Beginnings and Immigrant Struggles

In this first act, we explore Mario's early life in Italy, where his fascination with hair began. Growing up in a small village, Mario’s passion for the craft was ignited by his experiences in local barbershops. The narrative shifts to his immigration to America, where he faced language barriers and worked tirelessly to build a new life. Despite the challenges, Mario’s resilience drove him to excel in the competitive hairstyling world, marking the beginning of his rise. This part of the story sets the foundation for Mario’s personal and professional transformation, focusing on his determination, his early struggles, and the crucial moments that shaped him.

Part II: Rise to Fame, Love, and Building an Empire

This act delves into Mario’s ascent in the beauty industry, from his triumphs in international hairstyling competitions to the opening of Tricoci Salons, where he pioneered the concept of the “day spa” experience. As Mario’s name became synonymous with luxury and innovation, he transitioned into a successful entrepreneur. Alongside this journey, we explore Mario’s deep partnership with Cheryl, his late wife, whose influence helped guide both his personal life and his business decisions. The act culminates with Mario founding Tricoci University, dedicated to educating and empowering the next generation of stylists, marking his legacy as a mentor and philanthropist. This part of the story showcases Mario’s professional evolution and his commitment to lifting others.

Part III: Legacy, Reflection, and Loss

In the final act, we focus on Mario’s reflections on his life and legacy, particularly after Cheryl’s passing. Now older, Mario contemplates the meaning of his achievements and the lasting influence Cheryl had on his work and his heart. We see Mario reflect on their shared journey and how her support shaped not only his career but also his belief in the power of uplifting others. This part of the story emphasizes Mario’s unwavering commitment to kindness, his family, and his core philosophy of being a "daymaker" — someone who strives to empower and inspire those around him. The film concludes with a sense of hope, highlighting the enduring legacy of Mario and Cheryl’s shared vision, and how that will continue to inspire long after them.

production plan

Shooting Schedule Breakdown:

2 days at Tricoci Salons:

Capture Mario reconnecting with staff, clients, and interacting within the salons. This provides both verité footage of his ongoing legacy and personal interactions that will weave into the story.

1 day at Tricoci University:

Focus on Mario interacting with students and staff, discussing his passion for education and mentorship. Highlight the school's role in his broader legacy.

4 days with family and friends:

Document Mario’s personal life, including moments at home, on the golf course, and shared reflections with family and friends, on special occasions. This will provide insight into his character beyond his professional achievements.

2 days in Italy:

Focus on revisiting his roots, the renovation of his family home, and his reflections on the life he left behind in Italy. These moments will be key in connecting his past with his present journey.

2 days in Arizona:

Capture quieter, more reflective moments with Mario contemplating his life’s journey. This section will balance the film’s emotional core.

3 days for interviews:

Capture interviews with Mario and key people in his life to provide context and depth to the narrative.