The Inventor 2023

Moon study in Rome for life signs

In Rome, 1516, Leonardo uses a mirror-based telescope to examine the Moon's surface. He hopes to detect seas or signs of life and to push the boundaries of knowledge. This early inquiry foreshadows his lifelong obsession with life, the cosmos, and the soul.

Papal reveal and halt order

Members of the Papal Court accompany Leonardo into a room where Zoroastro reveals a human body for forensic probing. The moment sparks a debate about whether science should probe divine mysteries or overstep religious authority. The Pope orders Leonardo to cease further investigations into God's works.

Defeat at Marignano and quick rise as a military engineer

A messenger informs the Pope of the Milanese defeat at Marignano (Sept 1515), and Leonardo is briefly appointed as a military engineer. His service is cut short by the political push for peace with France. He argues for negotiating with Francis I, aligning his craft with the king's interests.

Peace with Francis I and invitation to the French court

Leonardo demonstrates inventions to Francis I, who is impressed by his genius. Francis invites him to the French royal court to continue his work. Leonardo accepts the invitation and prepares to travel.

Journey to Amboise and Remorantin assignment

Leonardo arrives in Amboise after accepting Francis's invitation. Francis assigns him and his assistant Cecco to visit Remorantin to inspect a castle under construction. There he meets Marguerite, a woman who becomes an early ally in his intellectual journey.

Death confrontation and soul search away from Rome

Away from the Papal influence, Leonardo presses on with his search for the soul and is confronted by Death. The encounter underscores the fragility of life and the stakes of his quest. Marguerite's companionship encourages him to persevere.

Marguerite aids the Ideal City project

Marguerite helps Leonardo sketch his Ideal City, replacing the castle project with a broader urban vision. The collaboration blends architecture with science and philosophy in a hopeful alternative to courtly displays. The idea grows as a symbol of human-centered progress.

Shift from Ideal City to courtly demonstrations

As Francis prepares festivities to welcome other monarchs, Leonardo is forced to halt the Ideal City and pivot to inventions that the court can showcase. He develops military devices and even a plan for an equestrian statue of Francis I to dazzle guests like Charles V and Henry VIII. The shift reveals his adaptability under royal expectations.

Illness and Papal Court visit

Leonardo falls ill and is visited by the Papal Court; despite his fragility, he decides to reveal his research on the soul. Cecco opposes sharing his theories publicly, arguing for caution. The illness becomes a turning point in whether science and spirituality should meet the public eye.

Claim of the Secret to Life itself

From his bed, Leonardo proclaims that he has discovered the 'Secret to Life itself'. The assertion intensifies the debate between science and faith at court. The moment amplifies the tension surrounding his work and his legacy.

Solar System show with Francis as the Sun

Leonardo stages a show on the Solar System, with Francis I playing the Sun, to illustrate the order of the cosmos and humanity's place within it. The performance fuses art, engineering, and religion into one sweeping spectacle. The ceremony culminates in a sense of awe and inquiry.

Song of life and ascent toward the Milky Way

A song, 'A Life Well Spent Is Long,' is interpreted as a philosophy of his work, and Leonardo seems to fly into what appears to be the Milky Way. The sequence suggests his death or a transcendent ascent beyond ordinary perception. Marguerite and Cecco watch with a mix of wonder and sorrow.