Alejandro de Tomaso, Argentine by birth and Modena by adoption, lived multiple lives in one: first as a racing driver, then as a manufacturer, and finally as an industrialist. Starting in the 1950s, he chose Modena as the center of his automotive vision, creating legendary racing and sports cars, such as the Vallelunga and Mangusta. In the 1970s, he became the protagonist of an unprecedented industrial ascent: Benelli, Moto Guzzi, Maserati, and Innocenti became part of an empire that ranked second in the Italian automotive industry, just behind FIAT. It was an era of extreme ambition, genius, and impetuosity, constantly in the spotlight and at the center of conflicts during the most turbulent period for Italian industry. He was an innovator: his work ranged from turbo engines to electric city cars, all the way to the Pantera, the Ford-powered icon that challenged the world on the track, in film, and in pop culture. With the Maserati Biturbo, he revolutionized the Emilian manufacturer and saved it from crisis. The film explores the lights and shadows of a divisive figure, loved and hated, yet impossible to ignore. It also explores what remains of his cultural and industrial legacy today, even after the demise of the historic Modena plant in 2018. Through interviews, archive materials, and the stories of enthusiasts who still cherish his creations—from his most iconic cars to Benelli and Moto Guzzi motorcycles — the documentary reconstructs the definitive portrait of a visionary who redefined the Italian automotive dream.

The Director:
Modena-born Davide Maffei has created award-winning documentaries on industrial culture and design, including La Fabbrica Blu, Paradigma Olivetti, and Prospettiva Olivetti, selected and screened at international festivals and distributed worldwide.

Production:
The film is produced by AirPixel, an independent producer with a long-standing collaboration with the director, which has already layed the foundation of numerous successful films.