Paolo Virzì's 'Notti magiche' pays homage to Italian cinema's golden age
Paolo Virzì returns to Italian filmmaking with 'Notti magiche', a tribute to the cinema that inspired him as a young aspiring director. The film, set during the 1990 World Cup when Italy was eliminated, follows three finalists of the Premio Solinas—Antonino, Luciano, and Eugenia—who dream of making it in the film industry. The screenplay is co-written by Virzì, Francesca Archibugi, and Francesco Piccolo. The protagonists, played by Mauro Lamantia, Giovanni Toscano, and Irene Vetere, navigate a world of allure and deceit among legendary auteurs like Monicelli and Scola. The film blends comedy, tragedy, and irony, with a fast pace and rich dialogue. Virzì also created the poster illustration. 'Notti magiche' is released on November 8 by 01Distribution.
Key facts
- Paolo Virzì directed 'Notti magiche' after his American debut 'Ella & John' at the 74th Venice Film Festival.
- The film is set during the 1990 World Cup when Italy was eliminated.
- The screenplay was co-written by Virzì, Francesca Archibugi, and Francesco Piccolo.
- The three protagonists are finalists of the Premio Solinas, a prize Virzì himself once won.
- Characters include Antonino from Messina, Luciano from Piombino, and Eugenia from a Roman power family.
- The film pays homage to Italian cinema legends such as Monicelli, Scola, Fellini, and Zavattini.
- Actors Mauro Lamantia, Giovanni Toscano, and Irene Vetere play the leads.
- 'Notti magiche' is distributed by 01Distribution and releases on November 8.
Entities
Artists
- Paolo Virzì
- Francesca Archibugi
- Francesco Piccolo
- Mauro Lamantia
- Giovanni Toscano
- Irene Vetere
- Monicelli
- Scola
- Fellini
- Zavattini
- Margherita Bordino
Institutions
- Premio Solinas
- 01Distribution
- Artribune
- Festa del Cinema di Roma
Locations
- Italy
- Roma
- Messina
- Piombino
- Venezia