On December 30, 2024, Rai 1 unveils its latest adaptation of one of Eduardo De Filippo's most cherished plays, Questi Fantasmi!, directed by Alessandro Gassmann. This rendition not only pays homage to De Filippo's genius but also aims to breathe life back to his timeless themes, as family dynamics and societal struggles remain relevant to contemporary viewers.
Gassmann's adaptation features Massimiliano Gallo stepping boldly as Pasquale Lojacono, the lead character embroiled in supernatural dealings, alongside Anna Foglietta portraying his resolute wife, Maria. The play's narrative revolves around their hopes of dispelling rumors surrounding the supposed ghosts haunting their new home, which sets the stage for comical yet poignant revelations about personal expectations and realities.
Having been filmed amid the scenic backdrop of Naples, the adaptation marks another chapter for the Collection De Filippo project. Following the earlier successes of adaptations like Natale in Casa Cupiello and Filumena Marturano, the project seems committed to bringing De Filippo’s stories to both new and loyal audiences. Gassmann himself noted, “I wanted to make a film respectful of the theatrical writing, but insertion within ghostly surroundings.”
The relationship dynamics between Pasquale and Maria are central to the plot, portraying their struggle between ambition and the starkness of their daily lives. While Pasquale appears entranced by money and the allure of the supernatural, Maria embodies strength and determination, challenging traditional roles. Foglietta’s portrayal of Maria introduces modern sensibilities, departing from the character’s original depiction, as she states, “Stavolta è padrona di sé stessa... diventa vincente.”
This adaptation showcases Gassmann’s deftness at blending traditional storytelling with contemporary relevance, all the more significant when considering the legacy of his father, Vittorio Gassmann, who played Pasquale Lojacono alongside Sophia Loren decades earlier. Alessandro reflects, “Napoli mi ha adottato richiamandomi a sé tante volte,” underscoring his personal connection to the narrative.
Another dimension to the adaptation is its exploration of the specter theme within modernity. Questi fantastmi prompt the audience to confront what truly haunts individuals—be it personal ghosts of insecurity or the specter of Great Expectations often unmet. Gassmann’s guiding philosophical note, “I fantasmi non esistono. I fantasmi siamo noi,” resonates through the creative reinterpretation of family relationships and societal pressures.
While the play roots itself firmly within comedy, it navigates complex emotions and realities, capturing De Filippo’s blend of humor and drama. Gallo succinctly describes Pasquale as “an ambiguous character, dual yet pure who believes in ghosts,” which encapsulates the essence of the struggle between illusion and reality.
The ensemble cast also features notable talents like Maurizio Casagrande and Alessio Lapice, contributing to the rich storytelling fabric. Together, their performances are woven with the history of past adaptations yet strive to introduce freshness to De Filippo’s narrative through nuanced portrayals, stark realities, and vibrant repartees.
Long after De Filippo’s passing, the need to address his works bears significance, as they provide rich commentary on our ever-evolving societal values and individual experiences. This adaptation, like its predecessors, is both homage and reinvigoration of his messages, reflecting the duality of growth and nostalgia.
Viewers are left to wonder if the mysteries of Pasquale’s financial benefactors are true manifestations of supernatural engagement or merely products of human emotion and folly. The question looms: are we haunted by our desires, or do we conjure what we cannot face—and how mirrors this quarrel resemble our contemporary lives?
Alessandro Gassmann's adaptation stands as not just entertainment, but as cultural exploration—prompting audiences to engage with the timeless inquiry: what ghosts follow us today? Tune in to Rai 1 on December 30 and witness this captivating intersection of the past and present, steeped deeply within the heart of Napoli.