Nanni Moretti's character, Cesare Botero, is loosely based on controversial Italian politician Claudio Martelli.
The role of Cesare Botero was originally offered to Gian Maria Volontè (who didn't like the script) and Giancarlo Giannini (who asked too much money). The director also considered Renato Carpentieri and Paolo Villaggio before offering the part to Nanni Moretti. Moretti originally turned down the role, considering himself to be 'too young, too handsome, too democrat' for the part.