A nuanced drama about the exploitation of immigrants and their labor, this film offers a memorable performance by newcomer Eduard Gabia in the lead role. He plays Ioan, a handsome Romanian immigrant endeavoring to escape Ceaucescu’s depredations by heading to Rome with a friend. Once there, he scrambles to find an under-the-table job and is befriended by an older janitor with whom he discusses opening a restaurant. When a pretty photographer spots him on the street and whisks him off to Milan to model, the attractions of fame and fortune begin to tempt him. The film compellingly portrays Ioan’s moral quandaries and his endeavor to retain his humanity amid a callous society.

Written by Carmine Amoroso, Filippo Ascione. Photographed by Paolo Ferrari. With Eduard Gabia, Luca Lionello, Chiara Caselli, Francesco Dominedo (97 min. Istituto Luce).