Ultimo stadio

The Champions League Final, on 31st May 2001, in Rome. A football match unites men that have nothing in common with each other. The stadium becomes a modern Greek theatre, where five dramas touch one another, only to fade away in a few minutes. The main characters are, Simone, Alice, Gabriele, Pietro and Achille, all different types of people, of different ages, all looking for a place to find some peace and quiet, a taste of happiness and love, as well as someone to trust in. At the last stage people laugh, but there is always a bitter note to their laughter. And their laughter is louder and more satisfying the greater their adversity. Indeed, in the end, there is always a reason to go on, a final stage from which to rise.

Directed by Ivano De Matteo, Ultimo stadio leans on a strong ensemble — Rolando Ravello, Stefano Santospago, Manrico Gammarota — 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 comedy titles of 2002.