Celebrity Info
Paolo Bonacelli, an Italian actor with a career spanning back to the early 1960s, has amassed over 100 acting credits—a truly impressive body of work. Over the years, Bonacelli has become one of those familiar faces that audiences often recognize even if they don’t immediately know the name. And yet, once you learn it, Paolo Bonacelli sticks in your mind. He’s perhaps best known for his chilling portrayal of the Duke de Blangis in Pier Paolo Pasolini’s deeply controversial film Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom. That movie, infamous for its graphic depictions of violence, sexual torture, and sadism, remains banned in several countries, but it cemented Bonacelli’s place in cinematic history.
But there’s much more to Paolo Bonacelli than just that single role. He delivered strong performances in Alan Parker’s Midnight Express, adapted from Billy Hayes’ novel, and appeared in Tinto Brass’s provocative Caligula, the adult-oriented biographical drama about the notorious Roman emperor. Collaborating with fellow Italian Roberto Benigni, Bonacelli brought depth to both Johnny Stecchino and Jim Jarmusch’s episodic masterpiece Night on Earth.
In more mainstream fare, fans might have spotted Paolo Bonacelli in J.J. Abrams’ Mission: Impossible III, sharing the screen with Tom Cruise, Philip Seymour Hoffman, and Ving Rhames. And then there’s his nuanced turn as Father Benedetto in Anton Corbijn’s atmospheric thriller The American, starring George Clooney—another standout moment in a long and varied career. All in all, Paolo Bonacelli continues to be a quietly influential presence in film, leaving a mark across genres and decades.
When it comes to Paolo Bonacelli’s filmography, one name that consistently stands out is Midnight Express from 1978—it’s widely regarded as his highest rated movie. Fans and critics alike often point to this intense drama as a career highlight for Paolo Bonacelli, showcasing his talent in a powerful supporting role. On the other end of the spectrum, there’s Caligula (1979), which tends to receive much more mixed, if not negative, reviews. While it gained attention for its controversial content, it’s generally considered the lowest rated film in Paolo Bonacelli’s body of work. So, when you look at the range of roles Paolo Bonacelli has taken on, it’s clear that Midnight Express remains a standout success, whereas Caligula, despite its notoriety, didn’t fare nearly as well in terms of critical reception. All in all, Paolo Bonacelli’s legacy includes both acclaimed performances and some more polarizing projects, but the contrast between these two films really highlights the highs and lows of his cinematic journey.
21
Turkey
23
