Fabrizio Biggio Takes on Dramatic Role in Rai’s “Le Libere Donne”
Fabrizio Biggio, known for his comedic work alongside Fiorello, is set to star in the upcoming Rai1 series “Le Libere Donne,” marking a departure into dramatic acting. The six-episode event series, co-produced by Rai Fiction and Endemol Shine Italy, is scheduled to air beginning Tuesday, March 10th, across three prime-time slots.
A Shift in Roles for Biggio
Biggio will portray Dr. Anselmi, the right-hand man to psychiatrist Mario Tobino, played by Lino Guanciale. This role represents a significant change for the actor and screenwriter, who is best known for his work on Radio2’s “La Pennicanza” with Fiorello. He described the opportunity as an experience he had long desired, though he hesitated to call it a “turning point” in his career.
According to Biggio, director Michele Soavi guided him through a process of shedding his established comedic persona. “He told me that first of all it was necessary to eliminate the ‘TV Biggio and Fiorello’s sidekick’,” Biggio explained. Soavi even altered Biggio’s appearance to enhance credibility for the role.
Support from Fiorello
Biggio credits Fiorello with encouraging him to pursue dramatic roles, noting that Fiorello often commented on his “sad eyes” and expressed belief in his dramatic potential. Fiorello reportedly saw the trailer and told Biggio, “I think it’s good.”
About “Le Libere Donne”
“Le Libere Donne” is based on Mario Tobino’s 1953 novel, “Le libere donne di Magliano,” which draws from the author’s experiences at a women’s mental hospital in Maggiano, Lucca. Endemol Shine Italy confirms the series was filmed in both Rome and Lucca.
The series is set during World War II and follows Dr. Tobino as he challenges the conventions of psychiatric practice while striving to protect the dignity of his patients. The story centers on the case of Margherita Lenzi (Grace Kicaj), a young woman committed against her will, prompting Tobino to question the circumstances of her internment. The cast also includes Gaia Messerklinger, Paolo Giovannucci, Massimo Nicolini, and Paolo Briguglia, among others.
Exploring Themes of Freedom and Repression
“Le Libere Donne” explores themes of female autonomy and the societal pressures faced by women in the 1940s. The series highlights the stories of women who found solace in madness as a form of liberation or were unjustly institutionalized for asserting their independence. MovieDigger notes the series aims to spark reflection on the historical and contemporary condition of women and their rights.