The Art of Joy (2024)
A bold Italian drama following one woman's lifelong rebellion against society, desire, and fate across 20th-century Sicily.
The Art of Joy - Series Information
- Original Title: L'arte della gioia
- First Air Year: 2024
- Last Air Year: 2024
- Created by: Valeria Golino, Valia Santella, Francesca Marciano et al.
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama
- Content Rating (US): TV-14
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (60 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 6
- Status: Returning Series
- Original Language: Italian
- Spoken Languages: Italian
- First Air Date: May 30, 2024 (United States - TV-14), May 30, 2024 (Spain - 16)
- Networks: Sky Atlantic
- Production Companies: Sky Studios, HT Film, Vision Distribution
- Production Countries: Italy
The Art of Joy - Plot
Born on the 1st of January 1900 in a poor family in rural Sicily, Modesta pursues happiness since her childhood without falling victim to the constraints of society. After a tragic event that takes her away from her family, Modesta is welcomed into a monastery, where she becomes the Mother Superior's protégé thanks to her intelligence and stubbornness. Later, she arrives at the villa belonging to the Princess of Brandiforti, where she makes herself indispensable. This relentless process of emancipation goes along with a journey of personal growth and sexual awakening, which lead her to discover and claim the right to pleasure and happiness.
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The Art of Joy - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Valeria Golino
- Valia Santella
- Francesca Marciano
- Luca Infascelli
- Stefano Sardo
Main Cast
- Tecla Insolia
- Jasmine Trinca
- Guido Caprino
- Valeria Bruni Tedeschi
- Alma Noce
- Giuseppe Spata
- Nika Perrone
- Viviana Mocciaro
- Antonio De Matteo
- Alice Canzonieri
Writers
- Francesca Marciano
- Valia Santella
- Luca Infascelli
- Valeria Golino
- Stefano Sardo
Executive Producers
- Viola Prestieri
- Sonia Rovai
- Valerio Golino
- Erica Negri
- Nils Hartmann
The Art of Joy - FAQs
Is The Art of Joy based on a true story?
The Art of Joy is based on the celebrated Italian novel L'arte della gioia by Goliarda Sapienza, written between 1967 and 1976 but published posthumously in 1998. The story and its protagonist Modesta are fictional, though deeply rooted in the social and political realities of 20th-century Italy.
Where can I watch The Art of Joy?
The Art of Joy airs on Sky Atlantic and is available to stream via Sky and NOW in territories where those platforms operate. In the United States, viewers can check JustWatch for the most current streaming availability and regional viewing options for the series.
Who are the main actors in The Art of Joy?
The series stars Tecla Insolia as the adult Modesta, with Jasmine Trinca as Mother Superior Leonora, Guido Caprino as Carmine, and Valeria Bruni Tedeschi as Princess Gaia Brandiforti. Alma Noce, Giuseppe Spata, Nika Perrone, and Viviana Mocciaro as young Modesta also appear in key roles.
Who created The Art of Joy series?
The Art of Joy was created by Valeria Golino, Valia Santella, Francesca Marciano, Luca Infascelli, and Stefano Sardo. The series is directed by Valeria Golino, the acclaimed Italian actress and filmmaker, marking a significant foray into long-form television storytelling for her.
How many episodes does The Art of Joy have?
The Art of Joy consists of 6 episodes across its first season, with each episode running approximately 60 minutes. The series premiered on May 30, 2024, on Sky Atlantic, and the show is currently listed as a returning series with production ongoing.
What is The Art of Joy about?
The Art of Joy follows Modesta, born in rural Sicily on January 1, 1900, as she navigates poverty, a convent, and aristocratic society in her relentless pursuit of freedom and pleasure. The series charts her sexual awakening and emancipation across decades, defying every social constraint placed upon her.
How was The Art of Joy received by critics?
The Art of Joy earned strong critical praise for its bold storytelling, lush cinematography by Fabio Cianchetti, and Tecla Insolia's commanding central performance. Critics highlighted Valeria Golino's assured direction and the series' unflinching portrayal of female desire and autonomy as particular strengths.
What is the content rating for The Art of Joy?
The Art of Joy is rated TV-14 in the United States, indicating content that may be unsuitable for children under 14. The series contains mature themes including sexuality, violence, and social oppression, reflecting its source novel's provocative and unflinching exploration of a woman's pursuit of pleasure and freedom.
More About The Art of Joy
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