Banijay Italia announced Endemol Shine Italy has partnered with Rai Fiction to produce a new three-part primetime series for Rai 1, based on Mario Tobino’s influential novel “Le Libere Donne di Magliano- Mondadori Libri.”
Directed by Michele Soavi, and set in Tuscany during the Second World War, “Le Libere Donne” follows psychiatrist Mario Tobino (Lino Guanciale) as he challenges the repressive confines of a women's psychiatric hospital. Within this microcosm of society, some women find solace and an unexpected sense of freedom within a restrictive society, while others are unjustly confined for defying societal norms. Mario’s world shifts with the arrival of Margherita Lenzi (Grace Kicaj), a young heiress confined to the hospital by her husband. As he questions whether she is truly unwell or a victim of cruelty, Mario embarks on a search for the truth, torn between his growing feelings, as well as another rekindled love for someone from his past.
Leonardo Pasquinelli, CEO of Endemol Shine Italy, said: “This co-production illustrates our strong partnership with Rai and our combined commitment to deliver high-quality, culturally significant stories. ‘Le Libere Donne’ is a powerful narrative of resilience, freedom and self-worth, bridging period drama with contemporary relevance, showcasing the impactful work of Mario Tobino.”
The series stars Lino Guanciale, Grace Kicaj, Gaia Messerklinger and Fabrizio Biggio. Filmed between Rome and Lucca, other actors include Paolo Giovannucci, Massimo Nicolini, Paolo Briguglia, Pia Lanciotti, Paola Sambo, Francesca Cavallin, Filippo Caterino, Dodi Conti, Gea Dall'Orto, Irene Muscarà, Marta Bulgherini, Ianua Coeli Linhart, Riccardo Goretti, Vittoria Gallione and Luigi Diberti.
“Le Libere Donne” is produced with the support of the Municipality of Lucca and with the collaboration of the Mario Tobino Foundation (ETS).