Il desiderio di essere inutile – Hugo a Venezia (2026): Cast

Prepared by Movies Dock Editorial

Il desiderio di essere inutile – Hugo a Venezia examines Hugo Pratt’s artistic ideas and lasting influence through interviews with close observers and collaborators. The documentary considers comics as a literary language, while also presenting a philosophy shaped by freedom, independence and openness to the unexpected.

Il desiderio di essere inutile – Hugo a Venezia is a documentary about Hugo Pratt and the ideas behind his work. Its title refers to one of Pratt’s famous expressions, connecting his view of comics with a broader belief in freedom and an uncommodified life.

Directed by Stefano Knuchel, the 2026 film brings together interviews with Patrizia Zanotti, Dominique Petitfaux, Thierry Thomas and Marco Steiner. It represents the conclusion of a cinematic research project that lasted twenty years.

Il desiderio di essere inutile – Hugo a Venezia movie details

Story without spoilers

The documentary explores the double meaning of “The desire to be useless.” In one sense, the phrase points to Pratt’s understanding of comics as an art form and a language with genuine literary and artistic value, despite the medium’s long-standing marginal status.

In another, it reflects a philosophy centered on freedom, resistance to reducing life to fiction or commodity, and the possibility of adventure and surprise. Through its interview subjects, the film places Pratt’s work and ideas in conversation with contemporary audiences, presenting him as a major figure in illustrated literature.

What to expect

This is a profile-driven documentary built around interviews rather than a fictional narrative. Viewers can expect an examination of Hugo Pratt’s artistic legacy, the cultural status of comics and the ideas associated with his approach to life and art.

The film also carries the perspective of a long-term research project, with its stated focus on returning to Pratt’s importance while considering why his work can still speak to audiences today. Its 1-hour, 40-minute runtime allows room for a sustained discussion of both his creative outlook and his place in illustrated literature.

Cast and creative team

Stefano Knuchel directs Il desiderio di essere inutile – Hugo a Venezia. Hugo Pratt appears as Himself, alongside Patrizia Zanotti, Dominique Petitfaux, Thierry Thomas and Marco Steiner, who are also credited as themselves. No writers are listed in the supplied credits.

• Hugo Pratt as Self
• Patrizia Zanotti as Self
• Dominique Petitfaux as Self
• Thierry Thomas as Self
• Marco Steiner as Self

Release and production context

Il desiderio di essere inutile – Hugo a Venezia is a 2026 documentary from Switzerland, produced by Fiumi Film. It has a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes and uses Italian and French. The supplied release date is September 12, 2026, and the film is listed as released.

Production companies: Fiumi Film

Movies Dock view

With its focus on Hugo Pratt’s ideas, artistic importance and continuing reception, Il desiderio di essere inutile – Hugo a Venezia offers a documentary portrait grounded in interviews and extended research. It may be of particular interest to viewers seeking context around comics as an art form and Pratt’s contribution to illustrated literature.

Film data:
TMDB