Codex Dante: mystical thriller hits Russian cinemas
Starting July 9, Russian cinemas will show Codex Dante - a new film by Julian Schnabel that has already drawn the attention of critics and festival audiences. Based on Nick Tosches’ novel, the movie offers a story about how faith, language and the criminal underworld collide in a tale of obsession and sacrifice.
The narrative unfolds across two timelines. In the early 21st century, New York writer Nick is approached by a mafia boss with a dangerous proposal: steal a manuscript of The Divine Comedy from the Vatican’s underground vaults. In the 14th century, Dante Alighieri faces a spiritual crisis, searches for his own path and struggles to complete his masterpiece. As the film progresses, the lives of Nick and Dante begin to echo each other, turning Codex Dante into a mystical thriller about the power of the written word and the choices people make.
The cast is one of the film’s biggest strengths. Oscar Isaac plays both modern-day author Nick Tosches and the medieval poet Dante Alighieri, highlighting how two men from different centuries confront similar fears and temptations. Gal Gadot appears as the protagonists’ lovers, while Gerard Butler portrays hitman Louie and Pope Bonifacio VIII, bringing a striking contrast to the story. John Malkovich, Jason Momoa, Al Pacino and Franco Nero also join the ensemble, turning the film into a true showcase of star performances.
Julian Schnabel, known for The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, directs the film. He has described Tosches’ novel as one of the most unusual books he has ever read, and Codex Dante clearly aims to translate that intensity and strangeness to the screen. Critics point out that the movie deliberately deviates from traditional thriller formulas, mixing contemplative scenes, tense confrontations and strong visual imagery.
Codex Dante premiered out of competition at the Venice Film Festival, where it was hailed as a bold cinematic dream. Festival reactions highlighted Gerard Butler’s ability to move effortlessly between the roles of ruthless gangster and Renaissance-era pontiff. With its festival buzz and distinctive style, Codex Dante now reaches Russian cinemas, giving audiences a rare mystical thriller anchored by a remarkable cast.
