The article discusses the recent works of filmmakers Paolo Sorrentino and Olivier Assayas, highlighting Sorrentino's film 'Grace' which presents an intimate portrait of the fictional President Mariano de Santis, played by Tony Servillo. Unlike his earlier stylistic flamboyance in films such as 'The Great Beauty,' 'Grace' seeks to engage in deeper dialogues and character exploration, offering a more subdued take on political narratives that often lead to glorification or reflection on power dynamics.

The conversation between critics Dārta Ceriņa and Žulijens Nuhums Kulibali delves into the implications of these films within the contemporary landscape of cinema, indicating a shift away from traditional glorification of political figures towards a more introspective look at political power. Both films are framed within the larger context of how Russian narratives are represented on screen, particularly in today's geopolitical climate, and hint at the association of contemporary aristocracy with modern-day political and social hierarchies.

Ceriņa and Kulibali's discussion emphasizes the importance of media in shaping public perceptions of leadership and power, suggesting that films like 'Grace' challenge audiences to rethink their views on political figures. Through an examination of these cinematic works, the article invites readers to consider the role of filmmakers in the ideological landscape and how their portrayals resonate with societal issues.