Film Fest Gent On Tour 2026 kicks off with Paolo Sorrentino’s La grazia (La grande bellezza), a remarkably light-hearted, funny and thoughtful film. In his latest work, the Italian master director follows the ageing president of Italy – once again played by his regular muse Toni Servillo – during his final months in office. As he wrestles with sensitive issues such as euthanasia and who to pardon, he is forced to re-evaluate his principles and humanity.

What seems heavy unfolds under Sorrentino’s hand as an elegant mix of moral reflection and witty interludes. The result is a promising, warmly received film that sets the tone for a Film Fest Gent On Tour full of high expectations, new premieres and returning masters.

La grazia is a subtle, topical and at the same time playful portrait of power, responsibility and the fragility of personal conscience – Sorrentino at his most cutting edge.