Paolo Strippoli’s ‘L’estranea’ receives 9-minute ovation at Venice

The world premiere of the Italian horror-thriller ‘L’estranea’ (The Spiral) received a nine-minute standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival. Directed by Paolo Strippoli, the film is described as a campy, high-concept genre piece that utilizes Grand Guignol elements.

The plot follows Anna, played by Jasmine Trinca, a controlling mother who strikes a deal with the devil—portrayed by Valeria Bruni Tedeschi—to save her daughter following a terrible accident. The agreement triggers a series of macabre events that threaten to destroy her family. The cast also includes Adriano Giannini and Andrea Genovese.

While the film may be considered an outsider for the Golden Lion, which is being judged by a jury led by Maggie Gyllenhaal, it has been noted as a refreshing addition to the festival. The film is scheduled to screen in the Midnight Madness section at the Toronto International Film Festival before its Italian theatrical release on October 8.