Boris: The Film

A disillusioned director who initially deserts Il giovane Ratzinger after another network imposition. He sinks into depression before reconciling with a friend to pursue a socially engaged film. Throughout the production, he wrestles with balancing artistic intent against commercial demands, ultimately capitulating to make Natale con la casta, a choice that repulses him and draws him back to television.

René's friend who, after a heart attack, buys the rights to La casta and co-leads the venture toward serious cinema. He is practical and opportunistic, steering the project through a fraught production. He suffers a second heart attack as pressures mount, underscoring the toll of their industry gamble.

A top-tier actress drawn to the project for prestige, her presence raises the project’s profile. Her instability and volatile mood contribute to on-set tensions and keep the production in a fragile balance between genius and chaos.

An actor whose disruptive presence complicates the shoot, challenging René's authority and the crew's patience. His behavior heightens the sense of a precarious, high-pressure production that could derail the project at any moment.

A rising star who sparks renewed hope for the project, but his sudden heroin overdose halts filming and underscores the dangers that surround fame and the film industry.

A trusted writer who remains in René's inner circle, helping steer the project amid chaos. Her loyalty and practical sensibility anchor the creative process as setbacks accumulate.

A loyal collaborator kept on by René after his fall from the old TV crew. He represents a steady, reliable creative voice who contributes to salvaging the project amid changing directions.