Mussolini: Son of the Century Earns Acclaim for Bold Performance and Modern Relevance

Joe Wright's eight-part drama on Benito Mussolini's rise to power delivers a visceral portrayal of fascism's roots and its enduring warnings.

Luca Marinelli's portrayal of Mussolini has been widely praised for its intensity, charisma, and physical transformation, drawing comparisons to iconic performances like Robert De Niro's in Raging Bull.
The series, based on Antonio Scurati's historical novel, covers Mussolini's rise from 1919 to 1925, highlighting his manipulation of postwar discontent and the violent rise of fascism.
Joe Wright's direction blends theatrical visuals, sepia tones, and a modern techno soundtrack to create a stylized yet unsettling atmosphere.
Critics note the series' contemporary relevance, with explicit parallels to modern political movements and authoritarian tendencies.
While praised for its storytelling and historical engagement, the series has faced some criticism for historical inaccuracies and its occasional reliance on farcical tones.