The Holy Boy

‘'The Holy Boy'’ or ‘The Valley of Smiles’ is an Italian film directed by Paolo Strippoli. It brings to the screen two hours of drama and horror on themes such as possessions and exorcisms. Additionally, suspense will not be lacking.

An unsettling tale is fueled by the religious devotion that coexists with a silent discomfort.

It transports the viewer to Remis, a small village in an isolated valley in the mountains of Italy. At the moment the legend of the Holy Child appears, a figure venerated generation after generation. Although there is never anything concrete in all the stories in which it is involved, they are always characterized by miracles, sacrifices, and unanswered disappearances.

Although from the outside it seems like the ideal destination for those with an uncertain future seeking tranquility and a peaceful life, there is something that stands out about this place: its inhabitants are exceptionally happy.

At first, it seemed like the ideal destination for the new physical education teacher Sergio Rossetti (Michele Riondino), who carries with him a dark past like a chain tied to his ankle that drags behind him with every step he takes.

The unusual attitude of the villagers does not go unnoticed by the outsider. One night a week, they gather to embrace Matteo Corbin (Giulio Feltri). Rossetti sets out to save the boy from that situation, which disrupts the balance of the entire community.

The work mixes psychological drama with religious horror. How much would we be willing to sacrifice if we found a way to free ourselves from pain?