On April 25, 2025, the much-anticipated film Diabolik – Ginko all’attacco! aired on Rai 2, marking the second chapter of the cinematic saga by the Manetti Bros., inspired by the iconic comic book created by the Giussani sisters. This installment features a star-studded cast, including Giacomo Gianniotti as Diabolik, who has taken over the role from Luca Marinelli with surprising ease. Joining him are the captivating Miriam Leone as Eva Kant, the ever-reliable Valerio Mastandrea as Inspector Ginko, and the regal Monica Bellucci as Duchess Altea of Vallenberg.
The film has already garnered attention, receiving three nominations for the prestigious Nastri d’Argento and two for the David di Donatello awards, and has grossed approximately 1.2 million euros at the box office. Diabolik – Ginko all’attacco! is a thrilling blend of action, seduction, and psychological tension, maintaining the elegant and retro style that fans adored in the first episode.
Filming took place in stunning Italian locations, including Trieste, Premariacco, and Milan, with the soundtrack composed by Pivio and Aldo De Scalzi, evoking the rich sounds of Italian progressive music from the 1970s. The atmosphere is undeniably noir, with meticulous attention to detail.
The plot draws inspiration from comic book number 16, published in 1964, titled Ginko all’attacco!. It begins with Diabolik executing a daring heist, stealing the precious crown of Armen during a performance by the Smeraldo Ballet. However, Inspector Ginko has anticipated this move, coating the jewels with a radioactive substance to track the thief.
As the story unfolds, Diabolik and Eva Kant find themselves embroiled in a web of deception and intrigue. After the heist, they face unexpected challenges, including a trap set by Ginko, leading to a thrilling chase where Eva is injured and must escape by jumping into a river. Meanwhile, Ginko, preoccupied with capturing Diabolik, neglects his romantic interests, particularly Altea, who is attending an official ball wearing the valuable Black Griffin Necklace.
In a surprising twist, Eva proposes an alliance with Ginko to capture Diabolik, but the double-crossing is thick in the air. Disguised as a makeup artist, she manages to steal the necklace from Altea right under everyone's noses. However, their escape is fraught with peril when they are discovered by Elena Vanel, who shoots at Diabolik. In a dramatic moment, Eva saves him, and together they flee with the stolen loot.
As the story progresses, Ginko realizes that his battle against Diabolik will never truly end. His indecision costs him dearly, as he loses Altea, leaving him heartbroken, while Eva and Diabolik revel in their victory. Their relationship is characterized more by strategy than loyalty, more by danger than tenderness, making it all the more captivating.
Giacomo Gianniotti's portrayal of Diabolik has been met with acclaim. He replaced Luca Marinelli, who was originally slated to reprise the role for the third time. Marinelli's departure was due to prior contractual commitments and delays caused by the pandemic, which made it impossible for him to participate in the film. Marco Manetti described their initial reaction to Marinelli's exit as one of "total panic," emphasizing the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Gianniotti, born in Rome on June 19, 1989, and raised in Toronto, Canada, has become a recognizable face in the entertainment industry, particularly for his role as Dr. Andrew DeLuca in Grey’s Anatomy. His film debut came in 1999 with La bomba, and he has since captivated audiences with his performances. In Inganno, a Netflix series, he plays Elia Marini, a character involved in a controversial relationship that challenges societal norms.
His marriage to Nichole Gustafson, a Hollywood makeup artist, adds a personal touch to his public persona. The couple tied the knot at Villa Pocci in the Castelli Romani after two years of dating. Gianniotti has described his love for simplicity, sharing that he enjoys biking and exploring new places with his wife and their dog.
As for the film's production, the Manetti Bros. have successfully adapted the rich narrative of Diabolik into a visually stunning cinematic experience. The filming locations in Trieste, with its enchanting streets and elegant European architecture, have provided a perfect backdrop for Diabolik's thrilling escapades. Notable sites include Piazza Unità d’Italia, Porto Vecchio, and Castello di Miramare, which have all contributed to the film's atmospheric noir aesthetic.
The historic center of Milan was also transformed to represent the dynamic and prosperous 1960s, creating a believable and immersive world for the characters. Various night scenes filmed in Bologna added to the film's suspenseful ambiance, showcasing the cities' unique charm and character.
Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, Diabolik – Ginko all’attacco! remains a must-see for fans of the genre. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of the infamous masked thief and his alluring partner, Eva Kant. The film is not just a police drama; it is an elegant dance between love and power, identity and deception, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
As the saga continues, audiences can expect more twists and turns in the thrilling adventures of Diabolik, ensuring that this iconic character remains a significant part of Italian pop culture for years to come.
