Scherzetto Review: Toni Servillo Elevates Neapolitan Ghost Story 2026

In Scherzetto, Toni Servillo brings gravitas to a dithering Neapolitan ghost story that struggles to find its tonal footing. Adapted from Domenico Starnone's novel, the film premiered at the Venice Film Festival, where Servillo's presence is always welcome. But this initially promising prospect is a minor, quibbling oddity, unsure if it wants to be scary or sentimental.

Toni Servillo's Performance in Scherzetto

Servillo plays Daniele, a septuagenarian book illustrator whose old-fashioned, hand-drawn artistry is something he testily treasures. Returning to his family home in Naples, he agrees to babysit his five-year-old grandson Mario while his daughter Betta and her husband take a weekend break. Servillo lends the role as much gravitas as he can; his mere presence is valuable ballast. The streetscape scenes of Naples are handled with a connoisseur's touch by director Mario Martone, whose previous Naples-set movie Nostalgia was far superior.

Plot and Themes: Ghost Story or Family Drama?

Daniele is working on illustrations for a new edition of Henry James's ghost story The Jolly Corner, which the film perhaps partly echoes. The apartment, gloomy and just behind the train station, becomes a character itself. Young Mario, played by newcomer Lorenzo Perrotta, is adorable and bright but also borderline insufferable. The dynamic between grandfather and grandson drives the narrative, but the film wavers between supernatural chills and sentimental family drama.

Comparison with Other Neapolitan Films

Martone's Nostalgia (2022) was a more cohesive exploration of memory and place. Scherzetto lacks that film's focus, often feeling like a lesser entry in the director's oeuvre. The ghost story elements are underdeveloped, and the sentimental moments feel unearned. Servillo's performance is the main draw, but even he can't fully elevate the muddled script.

Key Takeaways from Scherzetto

• Toni Servillo delivers a strong performance despite uneven material.
• The film struggles with tonal consistency, unsure whether to be scary or sentimental.
• Naples is beautifully captured by director Mario Martone.
• The ghost story elements are underdeveloped and may leave viewers wanting more.
• Fans of Servillo and Martone may still find moments to appreciate.

FAQ about Scherzetto

Final Thoughts on Scherzetto

Scherzetto is a minor work from a major director and actor. While Servillo's gravitas and Martone's visual flair are evident, the film's dithering tone keeps it from reaching the heights of their previous collaborations. It's a curious oddity that may appeal to completists but leaves others wanting.

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