Paolo Strippoli discusses his film 'The Spiral' at the Venice Film Festival
Paolo Strippoli, a prominent figure in Italian genre cinema, is presenting his new thriller, “The Spiral,” at the Venice Film Festival. The film features Valeria Bruni Tedeschi in the role of 'The Stranger,' a captivating yet menacing character, and Jasmine Trinca as a young mother drawn into a fateful arrangement.
“The Spiral” explores the intricate relationship between a mother and daughter that unravels after a shocking confession. The narrative begins with Anna, the mother, revealing a long-held secret to her daughter, Alice, during a storm. Anna discloses a pact she made with The Stranger two decades prior to save Alice’s leg after an accident. This agreement has led to a cascade of unfortunate events, and now only Alice can rectify the situation, though the cost remains uncertain.
Strippoli shared insights into the movie's creation, stating that the concept initially emerged as a novel he intended to write. However, his co-screenwriter, Salvatore De Chirico, suggested transforming it into a film. The story is rooted in Strippoli's personal anxieties about the lack of control in life, portraying a world where self-determination is often an illusion. The film also delves into themes of parenthood, illustrating how maternal and paternal love can sometimes manifest as a desire for control and ambition projected onto children. The director emphasizes that the parents in the film are not inherently malevolent but rather products of a society focused on industrial and economic advancement, aspiring to higher social status.
The director praised Valeria Bruni Tedeschi's performance, noting her generous nature on set. He mentioned that convincing Tedeschi to join the project was surprisingly easy, partly because the role of The Stranger was specifically conceived for her. Strippoli highlighted Tedeschi’s ability to portray sinister actions with a captivating lightness, often evoking humor without diminishing the inherent cruelty of her character. He described her as one of the few actresses who can deliver lines without judgment, suspending them in time and tone. Conversely, casting Jasmine Trinca as Anna Colonna required more persuasion, taking years to finalize, despite the script being written with her in mind. Strippoli explained that Trinca’s innate empathy and emotional intelligence were crucial for the role, allowing her to portray Anna’s rigid and controlling maternal instincts in a way that still elicits audience sympathy, presenting a mother who, despite her flawed and sometimes perverse methods, genuinely seeks the best for her family. Finally, Strippoli clarified that he views “The Spiral” not as a horror film, but as a psychological thriller. He noted that while it incorporates elements of the horror genre, which he admires, its core lies in its intricate plot twists and revelations, unfolding like a puzzle with the final piece unveiled in the film's concluding moments.
This film provides a compelling reflection on human agency and the unseen forces that shape our existence. It encourages viewers to consider the complex motivations behind parental love and the often-unpredictable nature of destiny. The intricate storytelling and powerful performances invite a deeper exploration into the human psyche, leaving audiences with profound questions about control, fate, and the true meaning of sacrifice.
