Joe Wright's Vision for Mussolini Biopic

In a bold exploration of historical narrative, British director Joe Wright presents "M: Son of the Century," an eight-part biopic that delves into the life of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini. Scheduled to premiere at the Venice Film Festival on September 5, the series aims to engage viewers by portraying Mussolini not only as a morally corrupt figure but also as a shrewd political strategist. Wright emphasizes the importance of understanding the seductive nature of Mussolini's rise to power, warning against the dangers of demonizing historical figures, which can absolve society of moral responsibility. The series draws inspiration from Antonio Scurati’s award-winning "documentary novel," which has sparked debate in Italy since its release. Wright's adaptation combines elements of various cinematic styles, likening it to a mashup of "Scarface" and 90s rave culture, enhanced by a techno soundtrack from Tom Rowlands of the Chemical Brothers. The creators intend for viewers to feel the exhilarating energy of Mussolini's ascent, even as they grapple with the implications of his violent and authoritarian regime. As Italy witnesses a resurgence of right-wing politics, with Giorgia Meloni's government echoing neofascist sentiments, the series serves as a timely reminder of the historical context surrounding Mussolini's rule. Scurati's work, which juxtaposes fictionalized narratives with historical documents, aims to prevent readers from becoming too enamored with Mussolini's toxic charisma, urging a critical examination of Italy's past and its relevance today.