Directed by Marco Bellocchio, Narrative, 2023, France/Germany/Italy, Italian with English subtitles, 134 min.
This provocative, richly staged period drama, set in 19th century Italy and based on true events, recounts the abduction and forced Christian conversion of a Jewish boy by Papal decree. In 1858 Bologna, young Edgardo is taken from his family and sent to Rome to become Catholic. Despite his parents’ desperate pleas and public outrage. The struggle to reclaim their son echoes Italy’s burgeoning nationalism and challenges the Vatican’s power. This epic uncovers a dark chapter of tyranny in the Church, artfully contrasting clashes of faith with a nation teetering on revolution.
Tickets go on sale September 17: $12
Co-sponsored by the Columbus Jewish Film Festival
