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Costanzo Reflects on Challenging Ferrante Adaptation Journey

11/2/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Saverio Costanzo (Italian filmmaker) discussed his collaboration with Elena Ferrante in Thessaloniki, noting Ferrante granted him rights to adapt her Neapolitan novels for HBO's My Brilliant Friend, and that he co-wrote 34 episodes.
Costanzo described the adaptation as challenging, though Ferrante was open to changes.
Costanzo said the collaboration has a unique tension that reflects feminist ideals.
Costanzo doubted such a production could be made today due to financial constraints.

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Story summary

Saverio Costanzo (Italian filmmaker) discussed his collaboration with Elena Ferrante in Thessaloniki, noting Ferrante granted him rights to adapt her Neapolitan novels for HBO's My Brilliant Friend, and that he co-wrote 34 episodes.
Costanzo described the adaptation as challenging, though Ferrante was open to changes.
Costanzo said the collaboration has a unique tension that reflects feminist ideals.
Costanzo doubted such a production could be made today due to financial constraints.