Italian films are making a dazzling comeback to the Philippine cinema scene! From November 12 to 18, 2024, the Italian Film Festival is set to light up screens in Manila and Cebu, showcasing the richness and artistry of Italian cinema. This year’s festival, led by Festival Director Antonio Termenini, is part of the annual program of Cineforum Robert Bressonand in collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI).

Italian Film Festival: A Cross-Cultural Collaboration

The Italian Film Festival is a collaborative effort led by the Philippine-Italian Association (PIA), with support from the Embassy of Italy in Manila and QCinema. For over a year, QCinema has fostered international partnerships, bridging cultures through films. An example of this effort is the groundbreaking film Last Shadow at the First Light, co-produced by the Philippines, Singapore, Slovenia, and Japan. This year’s Italian Film Festival promises to further strengthen the ties between Filipino and Italian cinema lovers.

Festival Highlights: A Curated Selection of Italian Films

Screenings will take place across prominent venues in Metro Manila, including Shangri-La Red Carpet, Power Plant Cinema, and Gateway Cinema. Here’s a look at the six contemporary Italian films selected for this year’s festival:

• Kidnapped: The Abduction of Edgardo Mortara by Marco Bellocchio
  A true story of a young Jewish boy abducted by the Catholic Church in 1858.
  
• La Chimera by Alice Rohrwacher
  Chronicles an English archaeologist’s journey post-release from an Italian prison.
  
• My Summer with Irène by Carlo Sironi
  A captivating tale of two friends searching for purpose and belonging.
  
• Palazzina LAF by Michele Riondino
  A powerful depiction of labor struggles and union activism.
  
• Io Capitano by Matteo Garrone
  Winner of the Silver Lion, it follows two cousins on a quest for a better future in Italy.
  
• Diabolik: Who Are You? by the Manetti Brothers
  The thrilling final chapter of the Italian “Diabolik” crime-action saga.

Special Guests and Interactive Experiences

Festivalgoers may have the chance to meet Antonio and Marco Manetti, the esteemed directors behind the Diabolik saga, who are anticipated to attend as guests of honor. If confirmed, audiences will have a unique opportunity to engage with these internationally recognized directors.

The festival lineup also includes special screenings, Q&A sessions, and interactive discussions. This immersive approach aims to create a dynamic environment for cinema enthusiasts, encouraging conversations around contemporary Italian cinema and its cultural impacts.

Embracing Cultural Exchange

The Italian Film Festival celebrates the profound connection between Italy and the Philippines through the lens of cinema. With support from Cineforum Robert Bresson, the Asian Film Festival, MAECI, the Embassy of Italy, PIA, and QCinema, the event is set to foster meaningful cultural exchanges. Italian and Filipino cinema lovers will come together to explore fresh narratives, dynamic storytelling, and the evolving landscape of Italian film.

Admission Details

All screenings will be open to the public, with selected films offered free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis at participating venues. This accessibility underscores the festival’s mission to bring Italian cinema to as many people as possible.

_{For more information:
The Philippine Italian Association
philitalassociation@gmail.com}