On May 9, 2025, a special event unfolded at the Istituto di Candiolo in Italy, marking a significant occasion dubbed "Santa Maradona Day." The day featured a visit from renowned director Marco Ponti and actor Stefano Accorsi, who came to celebrate the film "Santa Maradona" and unveil a unique publication derived from its original screenplay. This initiative aims to support the Fondazione Piemontese per la Ricerca sul Cancro, with all proceeds from the publication going directly to the foundation.
The visit commenced with a tour of the Istituto di Candiolo, where approximately 300 researchers, both Italian and international, dedicate their efforts to cancer research and care. During their time at the institute, Ponti and Accorsi had the opportunity to engage with doctors, researchers, and patients, fostering a dialogue about the impactful work being done.
As part of the day's activities, a symbolic check for 50,000 euros was presented to Allegra Agnelli, the president of the Fondazione Piemontese per la Ricerca sul Cancro. This amount was raised through sales of the special volume "Santa Maradona," which includes the original screenplay along with unique inserts such as previously unreleased photos, costume sketches, and other memorabilia.
Stefano Accorsi, who starred in the film, expressed his enthusiasm for the project on social media, stating, "Twenty years ago, with Marco Ponti, Libero De Rienzo, Mandala Tayde, Anita Caprioli, and other friends, we made Santa Maradona. Now we have decided to publish the original screenplay, reproducing exactly what we used on set, with all the notes, the storyboards, and the scenes written by hand at the last moment. And we do this to support the Fondazione del Piemonte per l'Oncologia - Istituto di Candiolo - IRCCS, to which 100% of the proceeds will go (everything will be certified in detail)."
Accorsi further elaborated on the publication, highlighting its rich content: "Dozens of photos, many of which are unreleased, by Guido Salvini and Philippe Antonello. And then the costume sketches, the moodboard, and surprising memorabilia, thanks to Giordano Meacci and Francesca Serafini, Willie Peyote, Anita & Mandala, Luca Bianchini, Samuel, and Max Casacci of Subsonica and other friends."
The emotional weight of the day was palpable as Ponti reflected on the importance of contributing to the institute's vital work. He remarked, "For me, it is an honor to contribute, even if in a small way, to this wonderful place of research, care, and attention for people. I see science, imagination, and vision at work. We make films with passion, and here passion is alive."
Accorsi echoed these sentiments, describing the visit as a "beautiful experience." He stated, "I have seen an exceptional reality, a splendid Italian excellence, and above all, a very effective center for cancer care and research."
The Santa Maradona Day event not only celebrated the film's legacy but also emphasized the importance of supporting cancer research and care. The collaboration between the film industry and medical research showcases how creative endeavors can contribute to significant societal causes.
As the day came to a close, the sense of community and purpose was evident among all those present. The collaboration between Ponti, Accorsi, and the Istituto di Candiolo serves as a reminder of the power of art to inspire action and support critical research initiatives.
In summary, Santa Maradona Day was a heartfelt celebration of cinema and a commitment to advancing cancer research, bridging the worlds of film and medicine in a meaningful way. With 100% of the proceeds from the special volume dedicated to the Fondazione Piemontese per la Ricerca sul Cancro, this initiative stands as a testament to the impact of collaborative efforts in addressing pressing health challenges.
