Thursday 25 June 2026, 17:30
Italian Institute of Culture in Edinburgh
The documentary screening series Italian Clapperboard continues on Thursday, 25 June at 17:30 at the Italian Institute of Culture in Edinburgh with Lasciatemi morire ridendo (Massimiliano Fumagalli, 71′, 2025).
Lasciatemi morire ridendo (Let me die laughing) tells the story of Stefano Gheller, the second person in Italy—and the first in the Veneto region—to have legally obtained the right to medically assisted suicide without having to leave his own country. A personal story that becomes universal, a clear-eyed and heartrending journey into the heart of the end-of-life debate. Stefano had made his decision long ago. But, unlike so many others, he chose not to flee to Switzerland. He stayed in Italy to fight a civil and human battle, pursuing—with dignity and irony—a profound, radical, and courageous demand for freedom.
The documentary traces the delicate balance between the desire to live and the oppression of the degenerative illness that was consuming him. Through powerful interviews—with his sister, religious figures, and activists—and a style that blends observational documentary with a theatrical gaze, the film leads us through Stefano’s days, his silences and his words, his doubts and his dreams.
Stefano loved life, and it is precisely for this reason that he chose to question it. His eyes, full of anger and pride, tell far more than his illness ever could: they speak of the clarity, strength, and brilliance of a man who chose to die laughing. A documentary that confronts us with the most essential questions: Who are we? What does it truly mean to live? And above all… when can we say we are free to choose how to die?
Watch the trailer here:
The film is in Italian with English subtitles.
Free entry, but booking required. Email rsvp.iicedimburgo@esteri.it for more info & to reserve a seat (please include the full names of all the guests in your party).
DOORS OPEN: 5:00 pm
EVENT STARTS: 5:30 pm
Please note that security checks will be in place on arrival.
Please note that photographs and footage will be taken throughout the event. These images and videos may be used for marketing, publicity, and other purposes, including on our website and social media channels. If you do not wish to have your image used, please inform the event organisers or contact eventi.iicedimburgo@esteri.it before the event.
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