Official promotional poster. Rights belong to the respective rights holders.
Read the film reference Availability and pricing vary by region.La ChimeraA movie brief.
2023 / comedy-drama / Directed by Alice Rohrwacher
A magical tale of love, loss, and ancient treasures.
What is La Chimera about?
In 1980s Italy, a British archaeologist-turned-grave robber returns to his home after jail and reunites with his band of tombaroli friends. He grows close to a young woman named Italia, who challenges his ways.
Five things to know.
Setup
The film is set in 1980s Italy, in a small town on the Tyrrhenian Sea, and stars Josh O'Connor as a British archaeologist-turned-grave robber.
World
The story explores the world of tomb raiders and the Etruscan artifacts they steal, set against the backdrop of Italy's rich history and culture.
Pressure
The protagonist, Arthur, faces pressure from his friends, his past, and his feelings for Italia, who disapproves of his tomb raiding ways.
Craft
Alice Rohrwacher's direction and the cinematography by Hélène Louvart have been praised for their unique style and enchanting portrayal of Italy.
Viewing note
The film has received universal acclaim for its magical and poignant tale, with a standout performance by Josh O'Connor.
A thought to take with you.
Arthur's search for ancient objects connects him to a group making a living from the past, while his longing for someone absent pulls him away from the present. The film moves between material discovery and private grief without treating one as a solution to the other.
Is it your kind of movie?
Choose it for a genre-blending Italian drama with archaeology, folk magic, and an ensemble of tombaroli. Its loose, dreamlike structure favors mood over a tidy plot.
Sources & scope
This AI-assisted brief is based on the linked secondary reference. Facts and interpretation are separated; it does not claim personal viewing or independent expert review.
Source details checked October 2, 2026. Suggest a correction · Our editorial approach