Hollywood has stepped up to support Rome's historic cinemas, following recent urban planning changes by the Lazio region. Prominent directors such as Martin Scorsese, Jane Campion, Francis Ford Coppola, Wes Anderson, and Ari Aster have united to petition Italian leaders, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Sergio Mattarella, to prevent these iconic venues from being repurposed as shopping centers or luxury hotels.
The alarming situation was first highlighted by Italian architect Renzo Piano, who eloquently articulated the cultural loss such conversions would mean for Rome. According to the directors, transforming these cinemas would represent "a deep sacrilege not only for the rich history of the city but also for the cultural heritage we must pass on to future generations."
Their letter, published prominently on the pages of Corriere della Sera, urges immediate action to safeguard these places, which Scorsese describes as "cathedrals of culture." He asserts the need to turn these abandoned spaces around and reinvigorate them as cultural hubs. They encourage filmmakers and cultural operators worldwide to sign the letter, reinforcing the call for preservation.
Scorsese, who spearheads the initiative, highlights the importance of Rome as one of the world’s key cultural and artistic cities. The letter has garnered surprise endorsements from many other stars and directors, including Isabella Rossellini, Léa Seydoux, Alfonso Cuarón, and Olivier Assayas, showcasing the widespread concern across the film community.
“The attempt to convert spaces intended for the possible cultural renaissance of the Eternal City is utterly unacceptable. Such transformation would be irreparable,” they reiterated. The letter also addresses the threat posed to other closed cinemas beyond Rome, indicating the expansive impact of these proposed changes.
This initiative aligns with the recent actions taken by Italian artists and citizens, who have been actively protesting against the proposed changes to their beloved cinematheques. Social media has been abuzz with expressions of concern as locals mobilize to protect their cinematic heritage. The directors' involvement adds international weight to the campaign, amplifying its reach and rallying support at higher levels.
Renzo Piano adds his voice, saying it is imperative to maintain these cinemas as cultural institutions rather than allow them to morph unexpectedly. "We must not lose our connection to cultural spaces; they nourish our souls and provide enriching experiences for current and future generations," he noted.
Scorsese's impassioned plea included not just fellow directors but extends to film festival directors and all cultural workers, calling for collective action to save these iconic spaces. His message is clear: it is our shared duty to revitalize these abandoned places, showcasing the urgent need for cultural preservation. The response to their call is hoped to galvanize efforts to protect Rome’s artistic legacy.
With the stakes so high, the directors' campaign shines a spotlight not only on Rome’s cinemas but also on the broader issue of cultural preservation worldwide. Their efforts serve as a reminder of the importance of conserving historical sites and providing spaces for artistic growth and expression.
The appeal has sparked intense discussion within the artistic community about the future of cultural spaces and the role they play in the identity of cities. What happens next will depend on the responsiveness of government and local authorities, as well as public opinion surrounding the future of these treasured cinemas.
Time will tell if this powerful movement will yield the desired results, but for now, the rallying cry from Hollywood has reverberated across the globe, urging action to protect the cinematic heritage of Rome.