At the age of 86, Marco Bellocchio remains passionately dedicated to his craft, as evidenced by his recent presentation of 'Portobello' during the Venice Film Festival in September 2025. In a series of interviews leading up to the release, he shared insights into his project, which consists of six episodes that premiered in Brazil on HBO Max. Despite feeling exhausted from his busy schedule, Bellocchio's enthusiasm for the series shone through as he discussed its themes and his creative approach.

'Portobello' examines a real-life incident that led to the incarceration of a famous Italian actor, intertwining personal drama with broader societal implications. Bellocchio, recognized as one of the greats in world cinema, challenges traditional notions that distinguish between television and film; he sees the mediums as fundamentally similar, differing only in length. He emphasizes that working in television allows him to engage with characters more intimately, leading to a richer narrative experience for viewers.

The series not only showcases Bellocchio's storytelling strength but also reflects on the nature of fame, justice, and the complexity of human relationships. As the series gains traction, it raises questions about the socio-cultural contexts surrounding celebrity and accountability, prompting audiences to reflect on the intersection of art and reality in contemporary storytelling.