Monica Bellucci Shines as Eccentric Matriarch in 'Ketticè
WHO:
The Hollywood Reporter - Monica Bellucci plays the role of Giulio's mother in the film "Ketticè."
The Hollywood Reporter - Giovanni Tortorici is the writer and director of "Ketticè."
The Hollywood Reporter - The film features actors Salvatore Gallina and Rachele Testagrossa.
Variety - Giovanni Tortorici is an emerging Italian director whose previous film was "Diciannove."
WHAT:
The Hollywood Reporter - "Ketticè" is a coming-of-age drama that explores the life of a 16-year-old named Giulio.
The Hollywood Reporter - The film is set in 2012 and revolves around themes of youth and adult disconnect.
The Hollywood Reporter - The film has been boarded by PiperPlay for international sales.
The Hollywood Reporter - Bellucci described her character as "the victim of a social role" and noted her character's frustration with societal expectations.
Variety - The film is in competition at the Locarno Film Festival.
WHERE:
The Hollywood Reporter - The film is set in Palermo, Sicily.
WHEN:
The Hollywood Reporter - "Ketticè" was showcased at the 79th edition of the Locarno Film Festival.
WHY:
The Hollywood Reporter - The film addresses the disconnect between generations, highlighting the inability of adults to understand youth.
HOW:
The Hollywood Reporter - The film was created through an extensive street casting process for its young stars.
The Hollywood Reporter - Bellucci's character uses food as a coping mechanism for her frustrations, as indicated by her eating snacks and sleeping in front of the TV.
(UPDATED August 9, 2026 10:07 UTC)
In the upcoming film "Ketticè," Monica Bellucci plays Giulio's mother, while the movie is written and directed by Giovanni Tortorici, an emerging Italian filmmaker known for his previous work, "Diciannove." Set in Palermo, Sicily, the coming-of-age drama explores the life of a 16-year-old named Giulio and delves into the disconnect between generations, highlighting the struggles of youth against societal expectations. The film is currently in competition at the Locarno Film Festival and has been boarded by PiperPlay for international sales, showcasing a unique street casting process for its young stars.