This European existential drama utilizes complex symbols inspired by abstract psychological theories to explore the effects and reasons behind a young classical actor's decision to stop talking. No one knows why Massimo has vowed to stop talking. Other than speaking dialog from classical plays, Massimo refuses to say a single word. His father, a classic-literature professor believes it reflects to a disappointing love affair. His new girlfriend thinks Massimo is rebelling against his mother, a poet. A director learns of Massimo and commissions his mother to write a play about him. Though Massimo plays himself in the play, and does speak, he returns to silence when the play is finished.

• DirectorMarco Bellocchio
• Release24 March 1994
• Genre
  Drama / Romance
• Duration1h 51m
• Budget?
• Revenue?
• Rate
  

  5.5
  4 reviews
• Productions

  Filmalbatros, Pierre Grise Productions, Happy Valley Films, Waka Films, Istituto Luce-Italnoleggio Cinematografico, SRG SSR, Televisione Svizzera Italiana (TSI), European Script Fund, Office Fédéral de la Culture, RAI