Idolized by fans across Europe, Christian Ferro (Andrea Carpenzano) is the youngest and hottest star in professional soccer, but his continual reckless tabloid behavior has turned him into a liability for his team. In a last ditch effort to instill some discipline in the hotheaded striker before he destroys his career, the team’s club president hires mild-mannered history teacher Valerio (Stefano Accorsi) to tutor Christian, ensuring he’ll earn his high school diploma. With this classic odd-couple setup, first-time director Leonardo D’Agostini impressively juggles humor with a poignant tale of growing up, effectively reimagining Good Will Hunting within the over-the-top world of obscene wealth and celebrity. But where The Champion finds its greatest success is through the impeccable pairing of Accorsi (The Young Pope), one of Italy’s most seasoned vets, with Carpenzano (Boys Cry), one of the country’s most charismatic newcomers.

Director Leonardo D'Agostini and screenwriter Antonella Lattanzi are expected to be in attendance on January 11 and 12.