Italian
Kevin Spacey takes on the role of ‘The Devil’ in new thriller ‘The Contract’
Cairo Film Festival to host world premiere
This week, Kevin Spacey makes a dramatic return to the big screen in the Italian indie thriller The Contract, in which he stars as a character known as “The Devil.” The film is set to premiere at the Cairo Film Festival, although Spacey himself will not be walking the red carpet at the Opera House in Egypt’s capital.
A devilish role reminiscent of ‘Devil’s Advocate’
In promotional materials, Spacey’s role is described as similar to Al Pacino’s iconic performance in Devil’s Advocate, where Satan manifests as a human lawyer. The movie poster strikingly reads, “When Hell Surrounds You The Devil Is Your Last Hope,” setting the tone for the psychological thriller.
Intense scenes and dramatic lines
In the film’s trailer, Spacey’s character is depicted with intense fervor, delivering lines like, “I can feel it when they lie to me on purpose, and I go crazy!” and “I don’t care about the past, it’s all long gone!” These snippets reveal the film’s gritty and dramatic atmosphere, even if it comes across as a low-budget TV movie.
Behind the scenes
Directed by Italy’s Massimo Paolucci, The Contract features a notable cast including Eric Roberts and Vincent Spano. The film’s Italian team, led by producer Massimiliano Caroletti, along with cast members Jennifer Caroletti, Mercedesz Henger, and Fabrizio Eleuteri, will be present for the premiere in Cairo on November 14.
Character dynamics and plot
Eric Roberts takes on the role of Giuseppe, a downbeat and egocentric journalist obsessed with landing a major scoop to revive his career. Giuseppe’s path intersects with “The Devil,” played by Spacey, who seems to offer help but reveals his manipulative nature. This twist is central to the plot, emphasizing themes of deceit and ambition.
Kevin Spacey’s career in recent years
Spacey’s once-illustrious career took a drastic downturn in 2017 amid allegations of sexual misconduct. However, in October 2022, he was found not liable in a lawsuit brought by actor Anthony Rapp. Later, in July 2023, he was declared not guilty in a U.K. sexual assault trial.
Returning to the U.S. cinematic scene, Spacey starred in the indie thriller Peter Five Eight, alongside Rebecca de Mornay. Despite limited critical reception, this role marked Spacey’s first significant return post-trial.
Massimo Paolucci’s directorial journey
Director Massimo Paolucci has a diverse portfolio, including the action film All in One Day, available on Prime Video Italy, the horror-crime movie Medium, and the slasher/horror Photoshock. Interestingly, he served as a line producer on Dario Argento’s infamous Dracula 3D.
Production and additional cast
The Contract is produced by Massimiliano Caroletti for TM Entertainment and Sandro Lazzerini. Kevin Spacey’s career revival also saw him play a police detective in the Italian indie drama The Man Who Drew God, directed by Franco Nero, and voicing a character in Gene Fallaize’s indie thriller Control.
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