Alexandre Smia started writing Jupiter, his first feature film as a director, when Joe Biden was still the President of the United States. The film follows a newly elected French president who faces the daunting challenge of preventing a potential nuclear conflict with Russia. Smia’s screenplay explores themes of leadership, international diplomacy, and the heavy burden of decision-making in times of crisis. When Smia began writing Jupiter, the political situation in Europe was relatively stable, with no immediate signs of a major conflict between Russia and Western nations. However, over the course of a year and a half, the geopolitical climate has changed significantly. Events in recent months have brought tensions between Russia and the West to the forefront once again, making the film’s themes more relevant than ever. Now, as Jupiter prepares to have its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival, the film arrives at a time of heightened global uncertainty. While the festival will screen the film out of competition—meaning it won’t be vying for the top awards—its release is sure to draw attention given the current political climate. Smia’s work, though fictional, resonates with real-world concerns about international relations and the risks of nuclear escalation. The film’s timing underscores how art and reality often intersect in unexpected ways. As audiences watch Jupiter, they may find themselves reflecting on the very real challenges faced by world leaders today. Smia’s debut as a director offers a compelling look at the pressures of power and the difficult choices that come with it.