Italian director Mario Martone returns to the 2025 Cannes Film Festival with his new film Fuori, the only Italian title in competition for the Palme d’Or. The film will have its world premiere on May 20, with its Italian theatrical release scheduled for May 22, 2025.
A Portrait of Goliarda Sapienza
Fuori is a cinematic adaptation of the autobiographical novel L’università di Rebibbia (1983) by Goliarda Sapienza. Set in 1980s Rome, the film recounts the writer’s arrest for theft and her time in prison, where she forms deep bonds with fellow inmates. This period marks a moment of personal and creative rebirth.

A Remarkable Cast
Valeria Golino stars as Goliarda Sapienza, joined by Matilda De Angelis as Roberta and Elodie Di Patrizi as Barbara. The cast also includes Corrado Fortuna, Stefano Dionisi, Antonio Gerardi, and Francesco Gheghi. The screenplay is written by Mario Martone and Ippolita Di Majo, with cinematography by Paolo Carnera.
Production and Distribution
Fuori was filmed in Rome, Fregene, and Maccarese throughout 2024. The film is a co-production between Indigo Film, The Apartment Pictures, SRAB Films, and Rai Cinema. In Italy, it will be distributed by 01 Distribution, while international rights are handled by Goodfellas.

Cannes 2025: A High-Level Competition
Fuori competes with 21 other films for the Palme d’Or at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, including The Phoenician Scheme by Wes Anderson, Eddington by Ari Aster, Alpha by Julia Ducournau, and Romería by Carla Simón. The international jury is chaired by French actress Juliette Binoche.
A Highly Anticipated Work
With Fuori, Mario Martone continues his exploration of complex female figures and Italian history, following acclaimed films such as Il giovane favoloso and Nostalgia. The film is already considered one of the most anticipated works of the festival, thanks to its narrative depth and stellar cast.
By Ekaterina Shevliakova