Overview

• The Venice opener centers on a fictional Italian president weighing a euthanasia bill alongside two clemency petitions for convicted killers.
• Toni Servillo leads the cast with Anna Ferzetti, drawing widespread praise for a restrained, commanding performance and Sorrentino’s visual control.
• Critics split on the payoff of the ethical quandaries, with several reviews calling the resolution sentimental or overly neat despite strong craft.
• Sorrentino said the premise was prompted by President Sergio Mattarella’s 2019 clemency decision and voiced hope the film renews attention to assisted dying in Italy.
• The film is in competition for the Golden Lion, received a standing ovation at its premiere, and will be released by MUBI outside Italy, with The Match Factory handling sales.