Umberto Contarello's Directorial Debut 'L'infinito' Premieres
Umberto Contarello, renowned screenwriter of films like 'La grande bellezza' and 'This Must Be the Place', makes his directorial debut with 'L'infinito', in which he also stars as the protagonist. The film follows Umberto, a once-successful screenwriter now adrift without projects, attempting to reconnect with his daughter and mentor a young writer. Co-written and produced by Paolo Sorrentino through Numero 10 and The Apartment, the film is described as a free and intimate work born from a casual phone conversation between the two. Sorrentino notes that the film preserves an infantile dimension essential to cinema, seeking laughter through irony and sadness. Contarello cites influences from Aki Kaurismäki and Jim Jarmusch, aiming for a film that offers two hours of oblivion. 'L'infinito' is a gentle, companionable film that explores truth and lies, solitude and conviviality, reflecting on the art of cinema and human relationships.
Key facts
- Umberto Contarello makes his directorial debut with 'L'infinito'.
- Contarello also stars as the protagonist in the film.
- The film is co-written and produced by Paolo Sorrentino.
- Production companies: Numero 10 and The Apartment.
- Contarello previously wrote films for Gabriele Salvatores, Paolo Sorrentino, and Bernardo Bertolucci.
- The film was conceived during a phone call between Contarello and Sorrentino.
- Contarello cites influences from Kaurismäki and Jarmusch.
- The film explores themes of solitude, conviviality, truth, and lies.
Entities
Artists
- Umberto Contarello
- Paolo Sorrentino
- Gabriele Salvatores
- Bernardo Bertolucci
- Aki Kaurismäki
- Jim Jarmusch
Institutions
- Numero 10
- The Apartment
- Artribune