Ultrà (1991)
A searing Italian drama about loyalty, betrayal, and violence inside the world of AS Roma's most passionate — and dangerous — supporters.
Ultrà - Movie Information
- Original Title: Ultrà
- Release Year: 1991
- Directed by: Ricky Tognazzi
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Runtime: 1h 35m
- Original Language: Italian
- Spoken Languages: Italian
- Release Date (Theatrical): March 1, 1991 (Italy - T), September 3, 1992 (Germany)
- Alternative Titles: Norte-ultras-sur (ES), Ультра (RU), Hooligans: Assalto ao Estádio (PT), Szowiniści (PL), Ultra - Blutiger Sonntag (DE), A kemény mag (HU)
- Production Companies: Numero Uno International, RAI
- Production Countries: Italy
Ultrà - Plot
The “Brigatte Veneno” is a fan group from the soccer club “AS Roma”. The next match is against “Juventus Turin”, the classic prestige duel. Principe, the former leader of the group, has been dismissed from jail a few days before. He has to realize that his best friend Red has not only taken over control of the group, but also has started an affair with his girlfriend. The rivalry between the hot-blooded Principe and the sensible Red causes an anxious mood within the group. When Smilzo, a member of the group, dies during a street fight with another fan group, Red knows that Principe is to be blamed for this catastrophe.
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Ultrà - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Ricky Tognazzi
Main Cast
- Claudio Amendola
- Ricky Memphis
- Gianmarco Tognazzi
- Giuppy Izzo
- Alessandro Tiberi
- Fabrizio Vidale
- Krum De Nicola
- Antonello Morroni
- Michele Camparino
- Fabrizio Franceschi
Writers
- Simona Izzo
- Graziano Diana
- Giuseppe Manfridi
- Ricky Tognazzi
Producers
- Claudio Bonivento
Ultrà - FAQs
What is Ultrà about?
Ultrà follows the Brigate Veleno, a fierce AS Roma supporter group, in the tense days leading up to a match against Juventus. When their former leader Principe is released from prison, his rivalry with new leader Red — who has also taken his girlfriend — pushes the group toward tragedy and irreversible violence.
Who are the main actors in Ultrà?
The film stars Claudio Amendola as the volatile Principe and Ricky Memphis as the more measured Red. They’re joined by Gianmarco Tognazzi, Giuppy Izzo, Alessandro Tiberi, and Fabrizio Vidale, whose character Smilzo plays a pivotal role in the story’s tragic turning point.
Is Ultrà based on a true story?
Ultrà isn’t based on one specific true story, but it draws heavily from the real culture of Italian football ultras in the late 1980s. Director Ricky Tognazzi researched the world of AS Roma supporters closely, giving the film an authentic, documentary-like feel that resonated deeply with Italian audiences.
What happens to Smilzo in Ultrà?
Smilzo, one of the group’s younger members, dies during a violent street confrontation with a rival fan group. His death becomes the emotional and moral breaking point of the film. Red holds Principe responsible for provoking the situation, deepening the rift between the two leaders and forcing the group to confront the real cost of their lifestyle.
Who directed Ultrà and when was it released?
Ultrà was directed by Ricky Tognazzi and released in Italy on March 1, 1991. It later opened in Germany on September 3, 1992. The film marked a significant moment in Italian cinema for its unflinching portrayal of football hooligan culture.
How long is Ultrà?
Ultrà runs for 95 minutes, making it a tightly paced drama that wastes no time building tension. The film moves swiftly from Principe’s release from prison through to the inevitable violent confrontation, keeping viewers engaged throughout its compact runtime.
Did Ultrà win any awards?
Yes — Ultrà earned notable recognition at the 1991 Berlin International Film Festival, where Ricky Tognazzi won the Silver Bear for Best Director. The film was widely praised for its gritty realism and strong performances, particularly from Claudio Amendola, and is considered a landmark of Italian social cinema.
What are some movies similar to Ultrà?
If Ultrà resonated with you, you might enjoy other intense character-driven dramas like Familia (2024) or Home (2021). For more Italian social cinema in a similar vein, The Last Time We Were Children (2023) and Three Goodbyes (2025) also explore themes of loyalty, loss, and community under pressure.
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