Venice Film Festival 2025, review movie Late Fame

Late Fame, the drama of feeling outdated

Late Fame presents a glimpse into the life of a poet who never became famous and is rediscovered by a group of young literature enthusiasts. Flattered by being rediscovered, he reflects on his youth, perhaps deluding himself or hoping to relive it through the passionate interest of a young actress, but soon discovers that, despite the appreciation for his talent, time has passed and his opportunity has been lost in the past. A bitter vision of reality, of what could have been but wasn't, with no chance other than accepting his condition.

The talented Greta Lee stands out in the cast as Gloria, an eccentric actress searching for the role that could change her career, loved by everyone but declaring she belongs only to her art.

The direction and screenplay of Late Fame develop a direct narrative, allowing the viewer to grasp every turning point, every salient complexity of the protagonist, well-portrayed by Defoe. Who wouldn't want a second chance, a second youth? Yet in most cases, the time to live it has simply passed. This seems to express the plot of Late Fame.