Cannibal Crime Film: Claire Denis Tackles True Story

French director Claire Denis is advancing "The Soap Maker," a new feature film she will write and direct. This English-language project draws inspiration from the true story of Leonarda Cianciulli, an Italian woman active in the late 1930s and early 1940s. Cianciulli was known for murdering three local women in Correggio, Italy, and disposing of their bodies using chemicals, with remnants used to create soaps and other household items.

The project first emerged in 2025 and has gained momentum with producers Sacha Ben Harroche and Ivy Freeman-Attwood boarding the film. Gerry Pass of Chrome Entertainment is also a lead producer. While Italian director Mauro Bolognini previously adapted the story in his 1977 film "Gran Bollito," Denis's "The Soap Maker" is stated to be an original work.

Denis, acclaimed for films like "Beau Travail" and "Stars at Noon," recently completed "The Fence." She is also currently editing a short film for the Miu Miu Women's Tales series, set for unveiling at the upcoming Venice Film Festival. Denis was recently honored with the honorary Golden Carriage award at Cannes.