Monica Guerritore, the celebrated Italian actress, captivated audiences during a recent masterclass and public meeting at the Teatro Petruzzelli in Bari, an event part of the renowned Bif&st film festival. This year, she was honored with the Arte del Cinema award, a testament to her significant contributions to the film and theater industry.
At the festival, Guerritore spoke about her role as Gabriella in the Netflix series Inganno, which has become a massive success across 190 countries. Gabriella, a 60-year-old hotel owner on the stunning Amalfi Coast, represents a character filled with depth and complexity, showcasing the often unvoiced experiences of women aged between 50 and 70. "It’s a role that I wanted. Both Cattleya and Netflix emphasized that they wanted an actress who had a strong presence and who wasn’t heavily altered," Guerritore explained, highlighting the importance of authenticity in portrayals of women in her age group.
In Inganno, which is adapted from the British series Gold Digger, Gabriella begins a relationship with a much younger man, played by Giacomo Gianniotti, which introduces a myriad of emotional conflicts and familial turmoil. Reflecting on her character, Guerritore noted, "This character was not contrived. She lived her 60s as they should be told to the audience, illustrating the energy and strength that come when a man embraces a woman, as seen in the myth of Eros and Psyche."
Guerritore’s portrayal has been particularly significant as it brings to light intimate aspects of women's lives that are seldom depicted in media. "The body is everything for me as an actress. I am primarily a theater actress, and for us, the body is the first sign because the face may not be visible. This narrative takes center stage in our discussions, breaking the mold of what women are often expected to project,” she asserted.
The actress also shared her desire to be an inspirational figure for younger women, advocating for broader representation in cinema. “In Italy, there aren’t narratives providing space for women over 50 and 60 as there are abroad. When Anna Magnani won an Oscar, she suddenly became a burden in Italy, while Betty Davis continued her career for another thirty years. We need to disassociate the body from limiting aesthetics,” she stated.
During her talk, Guerritore expressed a deep appreciation for the sisterhood among women in the industry. "When I started, many welcoming female figures influenced me, and I felt this great network of support. We breathe life into each other’s journeys, learning from the human adventures we share," she reflected, further deepening her connection with the audience.
In addition to her acting accolades, Guerritore is actively working on a film dedicated to the legendary actress Anna Magnani. Her commitment has been unwavering, with thorough research into Magnani's life and career. "When I started this project, I thought it would be easier. But working on it for three years has allowed me to dive deep into her story,” Guerritore explained. The film aims to explore Magnani's experiences leading up to the Oscar night in 1956, where she famously awaited the call about her win.
“On April 26, we will begin filming. It’s fascinating to focus on the pivotal moments in her life, from her determination to her profound emotional experiences,” Guerritore shared with excitement.
The actress's involvement in Inganno has led to discussions about a potential sequel. "The unexpected success of Inganno has left the door open for more storytelling about Gabriella and Elia. We have an option for Inganno 2, but for now, I see Netflix as a good vehicle for the Anna Magnani film. We are still figuring out what comes next for these characters," she stated.
At Bif&st, Guerritore’s acknowledgment was met with a long applause, underscoring her impact on the film industry and her ability to resonate with audiences on multiple levels. "It's like there's been a void for these narratives, and Inganno is here to fill it," she added, reaffirming her commitment to depicting nuanced female experiences.
As the event concluded, the audience was left with a sense of inspiration — a reflection of Guerritore’s belief that women in film should reclaim their narratives, especially those in the golden age of life. Her words continue to resonate, drawing attention not just to her own journey, but also to the significant yet often overlooked stories of women navigating the complexities of middle age and beyond.
