BELLARIA – The 43rd Bellaria Film Festival, directed by Daniela Persico, is currently taking place until May 11, 2025, showcasing a diverse selection of 58 films and 38 previews. This year’s theme, "Una marea risale gentile," emphasizes independent cinema and the female perspective, a crucial thread throughout the festival.
Among the notable guests attending this year are actors Luca Marinelli, Alissa Jung, Lunetta Savino, Isabella Ragonese, Maura Delpero, Carlotta Gamba, and Roberta Torre. The festival aims to shine a light on emerging talents and highlight the importance of women in film.
The festival opened with the film "ARI" by Léonor Serraille, which tells the story of a teacher named Ari, who faces unresolved issues from his past when he collapses during a class. This intimate portrayal explores themes of identity and the challenges of adulthood amidst economic turmoil and societal changes.
In a significant highlight, Alissa Jung's directorial debut, "Paternal Leave," is set to premiere at the festival. This film, which will be presented in the Casa Rossa section, follows Leo, a German teenager portrayed by Juli Grabenhenrich, who embarks on a journey to find her estranged father, played by Marinelli. The film captures the complex dynamics of their relationship, filled with misunderstandings and emotional tension.
Marinelli, while discussing the film, emphasized the importance of listening to children, stating, "I believe that listening to and learning from children is crucial for good parenting. They are much more connected to the present than we are." He further elaborated on his character, Paolo, who is forced to confront his responsibilities and face his fears through his unexpected reunion with Leo.
Another anticipated film closing the festival is "Hot Milk," directed by Rebecca Lenkiewicz. Set in a sun-soaked Spain, it explores the poignant relationship between a daughter and her ailing mother, delving into themes of care, love, and sacrifice. The cast includes Emma Mackey, Vicky Krieps, and Fiona Shaw, who bring depth to this emotional narrative.
Alongside the film screenings, the festival features a retrospective on pioneering Italian female directors, a section dedicated to film schools, and the Gabbiano competition for short films. Special events include an exhibition by artist Martina Sarritzu, evening concerts, and a unique meeting with the circus community for the film "Chapiteau" by Alessandro Sforzi.
This year, the festival also revives the BFF Industry section, aimed at supporting young film professionals through workshops and development paths such as (IN)EMERGENZA and Itineranze DOC. This initiative underscores the festival's commitment to fostering new talent and providing a platform for emerging filmmakers.
Marinelli, reflecting on the collaborative nature of the film industry, shared his thoughts on working under his wife’s direction: "It felt very natural to act for my wife. I knew we would reach certain heights because it was impossible to hide from her." He described the experience as both exciting and professional, highlighting the trust and understanding they share as partners.
As the festival progresses, attendees eagerly anticipate the discussions and panels that will explore the themes of the films presented, particularly the evolving role of fathers in contemporary society, as illustrated in "Paternal Leave." This film not only serves as a narrative about personal growth and reconciliation but also raises questions about societal expectations of parenthood.
Jung, in her debut as a director, aims to explore the intricacies of the father-daughter relationship and the emotional scars that can arise from abandonment. In her own words, "I wanted to find a way to explore the relationship that develops between a father and daughter and understand how a parent can abandon a child without remorse."
As the festival wraps up on May 11, it promises to leave a lasting impact on its audience, celebrating the rich tapestry of stories that independent cinema has to offer. With films that challenge societal norms and provoke thought, the Bellaria Film Festival continues to be a pivotal event in the cinematic calendar.
