A first look has revealed Oscar Isaac, renowned for his roles in Star Wars and Moon Knight, in the highly anticipated historical crime thriller In the Hand of Dante (or simply Hand of Dante). Directed by Julian Schnabel, this upcoming film will take audiences on a journey through a handwritten copy of Dante’s “The Divine Comedy,” illustrating its passage across ambitious hands over time.
Adapted from the book by Nick Tosches, In the Hand of Dante explores two timelines: one featuring the legendary Dante Alighieri and the other following a fictionalized Tosches, who embarks on the modern-day task of verifying the manuscript. The film boasts an impressive cast, including Gerard Butler, Jason Momoa, Al Pacino, Gal Gadot, and John Malkovich.
Isaac takes on the dual role of both Dante in the past and Tosches in the present. A promotional image shared for the 82nd Venice International Film Festival showcases him as Dante, depicted nervously ascending stone steps along a coastal backdrop.
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In the Hand of Dante is set to debut at the Venice Film Festival, scheduled for August 27 to September 6, 2025. The choice of venue is fitting, given the film’s deep roots in Italian history and culture. The team behind the movie is slowly generating buzz, releasing minimal glimpses of the famed poet himself, who serves as the linchpin of the narrative. While the film might face challenges during its Venice premiere, the star-studded ensemble is likely to deliver compelling performances regardless of critical reception.
In addition to this project, Oscar Isaac will also feature in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein, set to premiere later this year. His involvement in both films highlights his remarkable skill in portraying legendary literary figures, elevating expectations for his performances in 2025.
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In Frankenstein, Isaac plays the titular doctor alongside Jacob Elordi as the creature, with a roster that includes Mia Goth, Ralph Ineson, Charles Dance, and Christoph Waltz. As both films approach their releases, comparisons between Isaac’s two portrayals are almost inevitable, especially regarding their critical receptions.
While Frankenstein promises to be complex and shrouded in terror, In the Hand of Dante is likely to present a more understated narrative, further complicated by Isaac’s dual role. The simultaneous release of these films will undoubtedly offer audiences rich material for reflection on these iconic literary works.
For more insights about the latest films or to delve deeper into the cinematic landscape, explore our coverage on Oppenheimer or the works of Christopher Nolan.