Fabrizio Gifuni: “The series on Tortora? A new human adventure

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Fabrizio Gifuni: Mastering the Art of Portraying Real-Life Figures

Archyde Staff | July 29, 2025

Fabrizio Gifuni,a highly respected Italian actor,recently explored the possibility of shifting towards directing,a path taken by many of his contemporaries,including Valeria Golino and Claudio Bisio. His wife, Sonia Bergamasco, has already ventured into film direction with “Duse the Greatest” after a triumphant theatrical career.While Gifuni admits to contemplating directorial endeavors, particularly in theater where he has overseen projects for over two decades, his current focus remains on acting.

“Honestly, for now, no,” Gifuni stated when asked about directing. “In the theater, for more than twenty years, thinking about a project for me has immediately meant relating to an overall work: dramaturgical, staging, direction.The performative gesture has become the last segment. In cinema, I still have a lot of fun playing the pure interpreter. When directing becomes a necessity, as it has been since 2003 with theater, I will think about it.”

Adventures in Real-Life Characters

Across his extensive thirty-year career, Gifuni has notably embodied several figures who have left meaningful marks on Italian history. Recent portrayals of Aldo Moro, franco Basaglia, and Luigi Comencini highlight a pattern of engaging with impactful real-life personalities. His latest role as Enzo Tortora in the series “Portobello” continues this trend.

“Definitely,” Gifuni remarked on the recurrence of such roles. “I have also played fantasy characters like Nino Sarratore in ‘My Brilliant Friend’ or ‘The Beast’ by Ludovico di martino. But it is indeed clear that those figures who have left deep traces in real life stand out. They are figures that, when put together, make up a mosaic of contemporary history; you certainly cannot forget them.”

Gifuni elaborated on his approach to these roles, emphasizing a balance between immersion and self-preservation. “As an actor, you can be imprisoned in a character. In my case, every time, the character who was waiting for me fortunately canceled the traces of the previous one.Moro had a strong imprint on me. Luigi Comencini, from ‘La meglio gioventù’, stalled him a little, and now Tortora.”

The actor strives to embody characters authentically without losing himself. “I have always tried to stay behind the characters but not to disappear, above all to meet them halfway between me and the person to be played,” he explained. “A meeting between the two lived [experiences] and the two bodies, between my soul and that of the character. It’s a game, a mystery that continues to fascinate me like the first time.”

Key Roles Portraying Ancient Figures

Character	Real-Life Inspiration	Project
Aldo Moro	Aldo Moro	Various productions
Franco Basaglia	Franco Basaglia	Various Productions
Luigi Comencini	Luigi Comencini	“La meglio gioventù” (The Best of Youth)
Enzo Tortora	Enzo Tortora	“Portobello”

An Unwavering Desire to Act

Despite years in the industry, Gifuni’s passion for acting remains undimmed. He expressed that while fatigue can be a factor, his drive to improve has never waned. Collaborative experiences have also been significant motivators.

“I have never lost the desire to be an actor,” Gifuni shared. “It can happen. tiredness can take over, instead, I have never lost the will to try to do better and better.”

He particularly highlighted his fruitful collaborations. “There were these crazy years with Marco [Bellocchio]; he directed me four times, and a happy correspondence was established.” The actor also finds joy in discovering and working with talented colleagues.

Did You Know? Fabrizio Gifuni’s early career included significant roles in acclaimed films like “La meglio gioventù” (The Best of Youth), a film that explored generational change in Italy over several decades.

Reflecting on his career, Gifuni considers his entire journey memorable.However, he holds a special fondness for his youth, perhaps due to the shared experiences and camaraderie with fellow actors such as Luigi Lo Cascio, with whom he shared living spaces, books, and holidays.

Pro Tip: for aspiring actors, understanding the motivations and historical context of real-life figures can be as crucial as developing their own performance techniques, as demonstrated by Gifuni’s approach.

Gifuni’s dedication to his craft and his ability to connect with profound characters continue to make him a celebrated figure in Italian cinema and theater. His ongoing commitment to artistic growth promises more compelling performances in the future.

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The Enduring Art of Acting and Historical Portrayal

Fabrizio Gifuni’s career underscores a timeless aspect of acting: the power of embodying individuals who have shaped our collective memory. The ability to step into the shoes of figures like Aldo Moro or Enzo Tortora requires not just technical skill, but a deep empathy and rigorous research. this practice connects audiences to pivotal moments in history, offering new perspectives and fostering understanding.

Actors who consistently take on roles of significant real-life personalities frequently enough develop a unique expertise in historical interpretation. They become conduits through which past events and the people involved are re-examined,often bringing nuanced portrayals that challenge existing narratives. This dedication to biographical acting contributes to a richer cultural dialog, encouraging reflection on the past and it’s impact on the present.

The evolution of an actor’s career, from pure interpretation to potential directorial endeavors, mirrors the growth of artistic vision. As actors gain experience, their understanding of storytelling deepens, leading them to explore new creative avenues. This journey is often fueled by a continuous desire to improve and explore different facets of the cinematic and theatrical arts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fabrizio Gifuni’s Career

What is Fabrizio Gifuni’s approach to playing real-life characters?

fabrizio Gifuni aims to meet characters halfway, blending his own experiences and soul with those of the person he portrays, creating a unique synthesis.

Has Fabrizio Gifuni considered directing?

Yes, he has directed in theater and is open to directing in cinema when it becomes a necessity, though his current focus is on acting.

How does the series attempt to move beyond a simple depiction of Tortora as a villain, according to Gifuni?

Decoding the Vision of a compelling Narrative

fabrizio Gifuni’s perspective on the series centered around Tortora – a figure deeply embedded in Italian social history – isn’t simply a critique of a television production. It’s a declaration: this isn’t just a crime drama; it’s a profound exploration of the human condition. Gifuni, known for his nuanced acting and insightful commentary on Italian society, views the series as a vehicle for examining complex themes of power, corruption, and the enduring search for justice within the Italian context. This analysis delves into the core of his statement, unpacking why this series resonates beyond typical genre conventions.

Tortora: Beyond the Headlines – A Biographical Sketch

To understand Gifuni’s assertion, it’s crucial to grasp who Pasquale Tortora was. Tortora, a notorious Camorrist boss operating in Naples during the 1980s and 90s, became infamous for his brutal methods and extensive criminal network.

Early Life & Rise to Power: Tortora’s ascent mirrored the chaotic landscape of post-war Naples, capitalizing on social unrest and economic hardship.

Criminal Activities: His organization engaged in extortion, drug trafficking, and contract killings, establishing a reign of terror over entire neighborhoods.

The Maxi-Trial & Aftermath: Tortora’s eventual arrest and the subsequent maxi-trial exposed the deep-seated corruption within the Neapolitan system, but also highlighted the challenges of dismantling organized crime.

Legacy of Fear: Even after his imprisonment, Tortora’s name remained synonymous with violence and intimidation in Naples.

The series, therefore, doesn’t just recount events; it grapples with the legacy of a man who embodied the darkest aspects of Italian organized crime.

The “Human Adventure” – What Gifuni Means

Gifuni’s use of the phrase “human adventure” is deliberate. He isn’t minimizing the gravity of Tortora’s crimes. instead, he’s pointing to the series’ willingness to delve into the why behind the actions. This involves:

Exploring Motivations: The series doesn’t portray Tortora as a one-dimensional villain. It attempts to understand the socio-economic factors and personal experiences that shaped his path.

Character Complexity: Even supporting characters are given depth and nuance, showcasing the moral ambiguities inherent in a world dominated by crime.

The Cycle of Violence: The narrative doesn’t shy away from depicting the devastating consequences of violence, not just for victims, but also for perpetrators and their families.

Social Commentary: The series serves as a powerful commentary on the systemic issues that allowed organized crime to flourish in Italy.

This focus on the human element elevates the series beyond a simple crime procedural, transforming it into a compelling study of human behavior under extreme circumstances. The exploration of humanity within a criminal context is what Gifuni highlights.

The Series’ Narrative Techniques & Impact

The series’ success lies in its ability to blend meticulous historical research with compelling storytelling. Key elements include:

1. Authentic Setting: Filming on location in Naples and utilizing period-accurate details create a sense of immersive realism.
2. Strong Performances: The cast delivers powerful performances, bringing the characters to life with authenticity and emotional depth.
3. Non-Linear Narrative: The use of flashbacks and multiple perspectives adds layers of complexity to the story, challenging viewers to piece together the truth.
4. Focus on Psychological Realism: The series delves into the psychological toll of violence and corruption on all involved, creating a sense of emotional resonance.

These techniques contribute to a viewing experience that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging.The series has sparked considerable debate in Italy, prompting discussions about the country’s past and present struggles with organized crime.

Gifuni’s Broader Commentary on Italian Storytelling

Fabrizio Gifuni is a vocal advocate for more complex and nuanced storytelling in Italian cinema and television. He often critiques productions that rely on stereotypes or sensationalism. His praise for the Tortora series suggests that it represents a shift towards more sophisticated and thought-provoking narratives. he champions a style of filmmaking that prioritizes:

Historical Accuracy: A commitment to portraying events and characters with fidelity to historical records.

Social relevance: Addressing contemporary issues and challenging societal norms.

Artistic Integrity: Prioritizing artistic vision over commercial considerations.

Character-Driven narratives: Focusing on the inner lives and motivations of characters.

The Relevance of “Tortora” in 2025: Continuing Conversations

Even in 2025, the themes explored in the series remain strikingly relevant. Italy continues to grapple with the challenges of organized crime, corruption, and social inequality. The series serves as a reminder of the enduring power of these forces and the importance of confronting them.The ongoing dialogue surrounding the series demonstrates its lasting impact on Italian culture and its ability to spark meaningful conversations about the country’s past, present, and future. The series’ exploration of systemic issues resonates with contemporary concerns about governance and social justice.