Acclaimed Italian Director Reunites with Iconic Actor for Powerful New Film

In the past few years, acclaimed Italian filmmaker Paolo Sorrentino has seen great success, with his films "The Great Beauty" winning the Best International Feature Oscar in 2013 and "The Hand of God" being nominated for the same award in 2021. Now, Sorrentino has reunited with his frequent collaborator, veteran Italian actor Toni Servillo, for his latest film "La Grazia," which opened the Venice Film Festival last week and the Telluride Film Festival this past Friday.

According to many critics, including The Hollywood Reporter's film critic, "La Grazia" marks a return to form for Sorrentino and features one of Servillo's most impressive performances yet. The film follows an aging Italian president, played by Servillo, who is in a reflective mood with just six months remaining in his term. He grapples with the death of his beloved wife eight years ago, as well as the extramarital affair she had 40 years prior, which still occupies his thoughts. As he navigates complex political decisions, including whether to sign a bill allowing euthanasia, the president also faces resentment from his two children.

Sorrentino's exploration of Italian politics and the inner turmoil of an aging protagonist is reminiscent of his acclaimed 2013 film "The Great Beauty," which also starred Servillo. Watching the veteran actor navigate these complex emotional and moral quandaries amidst beautiful settings and a powerful score is said to be utterly engrossing for audiences.