Directed by Ferzan Özpetek and co-written with Carlotta Corradi and Elisa Casseri, Diamonds is an Italian ensemble drama featuring Luisa Ranieri, Jasmine Trinca, and Stefano Accorsi. Set to hit French theaters on January 21, 2026, the film continues Özpetek's exploration of collective stories, personal memories, and intimate narratives, while also delving into the world of costume design for cinema and theater in 1970s Rome.
A renowned director gathers the actresses who have played a pivotal role in his career. He presents them with a unique project: a film that explores women through their journey in a Roman sewing workshop, a vibrant creative hub dedicated to cinema and the stage. Run by two sisters with contrasting personalities, this space becomes the heartbeat of a close-knit female community united by their craft and shared passions.
In this workshop, the days pass in harmony with sewing machines and fitting sessions. Precise movements and careful attention to fabrics and colors create a daily routine rooted in discipline and camaraderie. Personal journeys intertwine, unveiling stories of mentorship, rivalry, and affection, as the space evolves into both a sanctuary and a place of empowerment.
Through this immersive experience, Diamanti shines a spotlight on sisterhood and the often unseen work of those who shape the world of live performance. Without revealing too much of its narrative secrets, the film offers a heartfelt perspective on collaborative creation and the evolving role of women in a transforming arts scene.
Diamonds is rooted in the personal experiences of Ferzan Özpetek. A former assistant director in the 1980s, he spent time at numerous costume workshops, including that of Tirelli, a globally renowned name in the industry. The filmmaker openly admits that the project bears a semi-autobiographical touch, inspired by his memories of these studios which he describes as “sacred sites of beauty,” where creativity is pursued with discipline and passion.
The production benefited from a close collaboration with the Tirelli Trappetti workshop, which generously opened its archives to the team. Photographs, textiles, and accessories served as the inspiration for chief costume designer Stefano Ciammitti’s creations, allowing the film to pay tribute to the legacy of Italy’s most influential costume designers. As a result, the movie references legendary figures like Piero Gherardi and Danilo Donati, as well as the costumes worn by Claudia Cardinale and Romy Schneider in iconic Italian films.
The production faced several technical challenges, notably the creation of a striking central red gown that required over 160 meters of fabric reinforced with black crinoline. Another iconic costume, designed for a theater diva in Samuel Beckett's Happy Days, stands out for its eight-meter crinoline and a colossal skirt made from layers of chiffon.
With its measured pace and meticulous attention to detail, the film appeals to viewers who are drawn to ensemble stories and artistic worlds. Following in the footsteps of other Ferzan Özpetek films focused on human connections and memory, Diamonds delves into themes of transmission, creation, and acknowledgment, all while paying tribute to women. The film is dedicated to the legendary actresses Mariangela Melato, Virna Lisi, and Monica Vitti, whom the director had always hoped to collaborate with.
Diamonds
Film | 2026
Release in theaters: January 21, 2026
Drama | Runtime: 2h15
Directed by Ferzan Özpetek | Featuring Luisa Ranieri, Jasmine Trinca, Stefano Accorsi
Original Title: Diamonds
Country: Italy
In Diamanti, Ferzan Özpetek delivers an intimate yet ensemble-driven drama that explores a rarely showcased world. The film weaves personal memory with a tribute to craftsmanship, embedding its story within an Italian cinematic tradition that seamlessly intertwines theater and fashion.
Looking to extend your in-theater experience? Check out the January movie releases, discover the must-see films of the moment, and browse through our top dramatic films of the year.
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