Season 1 covers the critical years from the founding of the Fasci Italiani di Combattimento in 1919 to the Matteotti crisis in 1925. It tracks Mussolini’s journey from a socialist agitator and soldier to the dictator who would define the 20th century.
: The season culminates in the 1924 assassination of socialist MP Giacomo Matteotti
Mussolini: Son of the Century is an eight-part historical drama series directed by Joe Wright ( Atonement , Darkest Hour ) that chronicles the rapid ascent of Benito Mussolini. Based on the bestselling novel M: Son of the Century by Antonio Scurati, the series explores the birth of Italian Fascism and the fragility of democracy through a stylized, modern lens.
His Mussolini isn't a distant monster; he’s a cunning salesman who addresses the audience directly, walking us through his "norm-shattering acts" with a wink and a shrug. Style Meets Substance Joe Wright (known for mussolini son of the century season 01
Overview
| | Details | | :--- | :--- | | Official Title | Mussolini: Son of the Century ( M. Il figlio del secolo ) | | Director | Joe Wright | | Starring | Luca Marinelli as Benito Mussolini | | Based on | M: Son of the Century by Antonio Scurati | | Number of Episodes | 8 | | Time Period Covered | 1919 – 1925 | | UK Airdate | February 4, 2025 (Sky Atlantic / NOW) | | Italy Airdate | January 10 – 31, 2025 (Sky Atlantic) | | US Airdate | September 10, 2025 (MUBI) | | Rotten Tomatoes Score | 95% | | IMDb Rating | 8.2/10 | | Best for Fans of: | Downfall , The Death of Stalin , House of Cards |
As a young man, Mussolini became increasingly interested in politics, joining the Italian Socialist Party and becoming editor of the party's newspaper, Avanti! . However, his views began to shift towards nationalism and authoritarianism, which eventually led to his expulsion from the party. This period of his life is skillfully portrayed in the series, highlighting the contradictions and complexities that would define Mussolini's future. Season 1 covers the critical years from the
and Mussolini’s subsequent 1925 speech in Parliament, which effectively ended Italian democracy and established a total dictatorship.
If you're fascinated by historical dramas, politics, and the life of one of history's most infamous leaders, "Mussolini: Son of the Century" Season 1 is definitely worth watching!
The series’ most striking message is that Fascism was not an ideology; it was a method. We see the evolution of the Blackshirts ( Squadristi ). Initially, they are depicted as drunk, disgruntled veterans. Slowly, they become a paramilitary force. The show forces the viewer to witness the brutality—the castor oil punishments, the beatings, and the intimidation. It demystifies the March on Rome, revealing it as a chaotic, rain-soaked mess that could have been easily stopped if the state had the will to do so. Based on the bestselling novel M: Son of
The series meticulously documents each step of the takeover:
Adapted from the first of five historical novels by Antonio Scurati .