A Deadly Compromise

In Genoa, Anna Merisi, the wife of the unconventional professor of the local university Paolo Merisi, decides to hire a babysitter for their son because she wants to work again to help to pay for their bills. Meanwhile, the deranged Caterina, who has just left a clinic, gets the Merisi family address and lies telling that she was sent by the agency. When Paolo sees her, he recalls that Caterina was his former student and they had an affair two years ago, but his wife is very connected to Caterina and he has no chance to fire her. When Caterina jeopardizes his marriage and his family, Paolo discloses his past to Anna. But Caterina does not want to give up on Paolo.

Directed by Giovanni Robbiano, A Deadly Compromise leans on a strong ensemble — Nicola Farron, Violante Placido, Elzhana Popova — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about thriller titles of 2000.