This multi-award-winning, true-crime gangster movie from Marco Bellocchio tells the story of Tommaso Buscetta, the man who brought down the Cosa Nostra.
In Italy in the early 1980s an all-out war rages between Sicilian mafia bosses over the heroin trade. As scores are being settled back home, Buscetta (played to perfection by character actor Pierfrancesco Favino) watches from afar in his Brazilian hideout. After his sons and brother are killed in Palermo, Buscetta realises he may be next.
Arrested and extradited to Italy by the Brazilian police, Buscetta makes a decision that will change everything for the mafia: he decides to meet with Judge Giovanni Falcone (Fausto Russo Alesi) and betray the eternal vow he made to the Cosa Nostra.
Known for engaging with the social and political contradictions of Italian identity, legendary director Marco Bellocchio (Vincere, 2009) explores the tale of loyalty and betrayal behind Italy’s most notorious mafia informer. Infused with an unpredictable energy and great performances, The Traitor is a bold, handsomely shot festival highlight.
Director
Marco Bellocchio
Marco Bellocchio is an Italian film director, screenwriter, and actor, known for Good Morning, Night (2003), The Wedding Director (2006), Vincere (2009) and Fists in the Pocket (1965). With a prolific 50-year career, Bellocchio’s works are known for being politically engaged, and exploring the social and political contradictions of Italy and its history. Bellocchio was awarded the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice International Film Festival in 2011.