Banijay Studios Italy begins production on local adaptation of TV3's series Merlí

Massimo Del Frate, Head of Drama, Banijay Studios Italy commented: 'With a great script and a high-calibre of talent attached, we are excited to begin filming this premium series. Un Professore combines drama and the complexity of friendships, family and romantic relationships'.

One of Italy’s most highly regarded actors, Alessandro Gassmann, has been cast in the leading role of Dante, a teacher who employs philosophical thinking to help his students deal with life's problems. But will he be able to solve his own problems as well?

With the support of his mother Virginia, Dante will try to mend a fractured relationship with his son Simone. A prolonged absence and dark family event are the root of their problems and the situation is made harder as Simone is alsoone of hisstudents. It is against this backdrop that Dante meets Anita, played by Claudia Pandolfi,the single mother of his rebellious pupil Manuel. Is she going to show this ladies’ man the true meaning of love?

Un Professore is produced by Massimo Del Frate for Banijay Studios Italy and directed by Alessandro D'Alatri. Sandro Petraglia has written the screenplay alongside Fidel Signorile, Valentina Gaddi and Sebastiano Melloni. Un Professore is based on the TV3 Catalunya format, MERLÍ, distributed by Lagardère.