Italian filmmaker Paolo Strippoli is officially making waves across the Atlantic. Known for a sleek, atmospheric visual style that effortlessly captures global audience appeal, the director has signed with major Hollywood talent agency WME for worldwide representation across all platforms.

The power move comes on the heels of a massive year: after competing at the Venice International Film Festival, Strippoli’s intense family thriller L’estranea (marketed internationally as The Spiral) was selected to represent Italy in the race for Best International Feature Film at the upcoming Academy Awards. Featuring an ensemble cast that includes Jasmine Trinca, Romana Maggiora Vergano, and Adriano Giannini, the film is generating intense anticipation as the Academy prepares to announce its official shortlist on December 15.