Los Angeles [US]: Acclaimed filmmaker Francesca Archibugi, known for La Storia and The Hummingbird, has signed on to direct the upcoming sex-trafficking drama Illusion, featuring Jasmine Trinca in the lead role.
According to Variety, the project is set to begin filming next month in central Italy, with a budget of approximately USD 8 million. The film marks a reunion between Archibugi and Trinca, who previously collaborated on La Storia, Italy’s biggest TV event of 2023.
Production and Cast
Produced by Italy’s Fandango in collaboration with RAI Cinema and Belgium’s Tarantula, Illusion boasts a strong ensemble cast. Joining Trinca are:
- Michele Riondino (Young Montalbano) as a psychologist
- Angelina Andrei as Rosa Lazar
- Vittoria Puccini (Elisa di Rivombrosa)
The screenplay is co-written by Francesco Piccolo, known for his work on My Brilliant Friend.
Director’s Vision
Archibugi described Illusion as a story of resilience and survival, touching on themes of power, wealth, and the human struggle for freedom.
“It’s the story of the desperate vitality of people who struggle to be in the world,” she explained.
The film will follow protagonist Rosa through multiple locations, each representing a different stage in her journey.
“Rosa’s world is first of all Romania; reassuring but too miserable. Then there are Brussels and Strasbourg, providing the contrast between wealth and power and the toxic aspect of her life. And then Perugia: cold, windy, ancient, and, finally, enveloping and leading to salvation,” Archibugi told Variety.
With its compelling narrative and a powerhouse creative team, Illusion is poised to be a significant cinematic event.