This movement aligns with global industry trends, as highlighted by Virginia Mouseler at the recent MIPCOM conference in Cannes (October 16-20, 2024), where she revealed that approximately 9% of series worldwide are based on novels. Among the most favoured genres, period dramas stand out, known for their detailed reconstructions of historical settings, costumes, and environments. This latest production, directed by the exceptional Valeria Golino, is no exception, offering a visually stunning and narratively rich experience.
Just like M - Il Figlio del Secolo, L’Arte della Gioia also boasts international appeal. Italian productions are increasingly making their mark on the global stage, with meticulous writing, carefully curated settings, and performances that stand on par with international counterparts. These efforts contribute to the growth of Italian fiction, allowing it to compete with the finest global productions.
A Feminine Perspective in Historical Storytelling
What sets L’Arte della Gioia apart is its masterful storytelling, particularly in portraying a female-driven narrative. The series excels not only through Golino’s meticulous direction but also through an outstanding predominantly female cast, each delivering powerful performances.
Premiering at the Cannes Film Festival before being released in theaters in two parts last summer, L’Arte della Gioia debuted exclusively on Sky and stream on NOW from February 28. This Sky Original series is freely adapted from the cult novel of the same name by Goliarda Sapienza, published by Einaudi. Despite being rejected by Italian publishers for nearly thirty years, the novel was first recognized in Germany and later published in France, a decade after Sapienza’s passing.
Produced by Sky Studios and Viola Prestieri for HT Film, the series narrates the dramatic and adventurous life of Modesta, an orphan from rural Sicily in the early 20th century. Her journey of self-discovery, including her awakening to sexuality and her pursuit of a better life, drives her to defy the societal norms imposed by the ruling class and fight for her emancipation and happiness.
An Award-Winning Team Behind the Series
Valeria Golino, a recipient of the David di Donatello, Nastro d’Argento, Globo d’Oro, Ciak d’Oro, and the Coppa Volpi at the Venice International Film Festival, not only directed but also co-wrote the series alongside Luca Infascelli, Francesca Marciano, Valia Santella, and Stefano Sardo. Additionally, the fifth episode is directed by Nicolangelo Gelormini (Fortuna, Lucio Amelio, Napoli 24).
A Stellar Cast Bringing the Story to Life
The series stars Tecla Insolia (La bambina che non voleva cantare, 5 minuti prima) as the fearless and passionate Modesta. She is joined by Valeria Bruni Tedeschi (I villeggianti, Forever Young - Les Amandiers, Estate ’85, La pazza gioia), who plays Princess Gaia Brandiforti. Guido Caprino (Il Miracolo, Fai bei sogni, 1992-1993-1994) portrays Carmine, the overseer of the Brandiforti estate.
Jasmine Trinca (Miele, Fortunata, Marcel!, La dea fortuna) appears as Leonora, the mother superior of the convent where young Modesta is taken in. The cast also features Alma Noce (Brado, La ragazza ha volato, Gli anni più belli) as Beatrice, the youngest of the Brandiforti family, Giuseppe Spata (La mafia uccide solo d’estate - Parte II, La mossa del cavallo - C’era una volta Vigata, Tutta colpa di Freud) as Rocco, the Brandiforti chauffeur, and Giovanni Bagnasco (Finalmente l’alba) as Ippolito, Gaia’s son and the sole true heir of the Brandiforti lineage.
With its international appeal, strong performances, and meticulous production quality, L’Arte della Gioia is poised to further establish Italian television as a major player in the global period drama scene. Sky Italia’s commitment to producing high-caliber, literary-based content continues to elevate Italian fiction to new heights.
