Photography NICOLA DE ROSA Styling SAMANTA PARDINI

Born in the picturesque town of Ascoli Piceno in the Marche region, Andrea Di Luigi discovered his passion for the cinema after attending a film course in Pescara, Abruzzi. This is how Andrea's journey from the cobblestones of Ascoli to the bustling streets of Rome began. In Rome, he studied under the supervision of renowned acting coach Azzurra Rocchi. The turning point materialized when Andrea secured a role in Ferzan Özpetek's film Nuovo Olimpo, a production that debuted on Netflix in November '23. Now, Andrea transitions from our streaming devices to the big screen with the upcoming film Il Corpo (The Corpse), starring alongside Claudia Gerini. The psychological thriller delves into the enigmatic demise of a wealthy woman whose body mysteriously vanishes from the morgue. As the narrative unfolds, suspicions of foul play arise, with Andrea portraying the pivotal role of the woman's husband and main suspect.

Interview by David Gargiulo

David Gargiulo __ Your breakthrough moment was the role of Pietro in Ferzan Özpetek's novel Nuovo Olimpo. Tell us how it happened.

Andrea Di Luigi __ I auditioned four times for that role. Initially, I didn't take the project seriously because I didn’t believe Özpetek would consider me for that part. When I received the callback, I started to believe it. Davide Zurolo, the Casting Director, is truly amazing. He made me feel comfortable, gave many tips, and guided me well. He discerned a shyness in me that resonated with Pietro, so we focused on refining that aspect. He's a character who often says something different than what he's thinking. 

DG __ What is your favorite thing about being on set?

ADL __ On set, I like to immerse myself in an experience; immerse myself in a moment. It helps me forget my life. At that instant, all my focus goes towards an imaginary situation. I try to believe it completely. It's one of those moments when I feel most alive, more connected to my body and mind. Acting is truly something magical—an opportunity to express how I see the world, to give meaning to what I feel and make it fit into a story. It's a moment I am grateful for.

DG __How do you prepare for your roles? Is there a routine you follow?

ADL __ I like to study the character. Since I met acting coach Azzurra Rocchi, my approach has changed substantially. My favorite moment is the preparation. I like to create the character's story by writing events that may be relevant to the plot. It's a way to give the character life. It helps me justify the character's reactions—he behaves this way because this or that happened to him. Then the challenge is to forget everything when you start acting. At that moment, I try to have fun and ride the wave.

DG __What is the difference between acting in a novel like Nuovo Olimpo and a thriller like Il Corpo? Does it change how you prepare for roles?

ADL __  Pietro in Nuovo Olimpo is introspective, shy, and speaks with his eyes. Bruno in Il Corpo is diametrically opposed: very impulsive and straightforward. It's a challenge for me, Bruno is truly a character outside of my comfort zone. I needed guidance and the director, Vincenzo Alfieri, was fundamental in this. He helped me push myself beyond my comfort zone. Being directed by him is an opportunity I’m grateful for.

DG __ What has changed in your life now that your career is taking off? 

ADL __ I haven't realized what's happening to me yet. Before, I did sporadic acting gigs, worked with my father in his studio, and waited tables. Acting was a dream that I had to fit in with work. Now, this is my real job. Mind-blowing!

DG __ Do you prefer improvisation or following the script? 

ADL __ At times I try to change my lines; As an actor, I believe it's essential to understand why I, as the character, am there and then try to find my words to express that concept. Of course, there are limits—some directors prefer to stick as closely as possible to the script. So I’ll take all the freedom given to me!

DG __What do you like to do when you're not on set? 

ADL __ I like playing the drums and riding my motorcycle. Every chance I get, I train with other actors at my teacher's space. I'm not someone who attends many parties. Occasionally, I like to have fun with friends and go out, but I mostly prefer staying at home and perhaps calling a friend for a jam session. I'm very attached to my family, so when I have time, I go home to see my grandmother and eat her timballo.

DG __What type of music do you play? Are you thinking of putting some beats on social media, or keep this passion a secret?

ADL __ I'm thinking of starting to post something on Instagram, probably with a band. I have friends who are talented musicians. It's time to publish something!

DG __What inspires you? Is there a message you want to convey with your art?

ADL __ I care a lot about my work. Even if I'm not in that position and probably will never be, my dream is to inspire others. I wish to encourage people to believe in what they love, to go all-in.

DG __Now that you've achieved one of your dreams, what's the next milestone?

ADL __ The next milestone is to hold onto this dream! It's not easy; there's a lot of work to do, and I still have a lot to learn. Fortunately, I have the right people around me and a strong desire to discover more.

Photography Nicola De Rosa, Stylist Samanta Pardini, Grooming Filippo Monzio Compagnoni using Cotril, Interview David Gargiulo, Talent Andrea Di Luigi (MPunto Comunicazione)