Italian director Paolo Sorrentino and actor Toni Servillo have teamed up for their seventh film together, the political drama “La Grazia” (“Grace”), which opens in limited release on Friday, Dec. 12.
What the film portrays
“La Grazia” follows President Mariano De Santis as he navigates the final months of his term, confronting personal loss, familial pressure, and weighty policy decisions. The fictional president wrestles with clemency petitions for spousal killers, a proposed right‑to‑euthanasia law, and the lingering memory of his late wife’s past infidelity.
Set against the backdrop of the Palazzo del Quirinale in Rome, the story also shades in De Santis’s relationship with his daughter Dorotea, an advisor and legal scholar, and his confidante, art curator Coco.
Why this collaboration matters
The film continues a partnership that began nearly 25 years ago with Sorrentino’s debut “One Man Up.” It marks the third time Sorrentino has cast Servillo as a head of state, following the 2008 biopic “Il Divo” (Prime Minister Giulio Andreotti) and the 2018 satire “Loro” (Silvio Berlusconi). Unlike those earlier works, “La Grazia” centers on a fictional leader, allowing a more somber, reflective examination of governmental morality.
Visually, the film retains Sorrentino’s reputation for striking composition, now rendered in “grayer, graver” tones by cinematographer Daria D’Antonio, emphasizing the weight of the president’s impending departure.
Potential next steps
Analysts suggest the film could spark discussion about real‑world political ethics, especially as it tackles topics such as clemency, euthanasia, and personal sacrifice in leadership. Critics may compare its tone to Sorrentino’s earlier, more stylized works, influencing how future collaborations between the director and Servillo are perceived. The movie’s limited release may also lead to broader international distribution if reception proves favorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the director and lead actor of “La Grazia”?
The film is directed by Paolo Sorrentino and stars Toni Servillo as President Mariano De Santis.
What central issues does the president face in the story?
He must consider clemency for convicted spousal killers, a right‑to‑euthanasia bill, and personal matters such as his late wife’s past infidelity and health advice from his daughter.
When and where will “La Grazia” be shown?
“La Grazia” is scheduled for a limited release on Friday, Dec. 12, and is presented in Italian with subtitles.
How do you think “La Grazia” will influence conversations about political ethics?
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