Filming Italy Sardegna Festival: Bridging Cinema, Television, and Global Talent. Interview with Tiziana Rocca

The 9th edition of the Filming Italy Sardegna Festival, directed by Tiziana Rocca, is set to transform Sardinia into a global hub for the audiovisual industry from June 25 to 28. As the festival prepares to welcome legendary figures like Harvey Keitel and industry leaders, we discuss the vision behind this unique international milestone.

Q: The Filming Italy Sardegna Festival has established itself as a unique event by linking Cinema and Television. What was the vision behind creating this bridge?

A: The vision was to create a comprehensive space where the borders between big and small screens dissolve. By involving major distributors, producers, and VOD giants alongside traditional television, we’ve built an authoritative international meeting point. We believe this convergence reflects the contemporary reality of the industry, allowing for a more dynamic exchange between creative languages.

Q: With over 50 titles and major international premieres, how does this year’s program reflect the current state of global production?

A: This edition is exceptionally rich. We are showcasing a diverse overview of international production, ranging from anticipated blockbusters like Toy Story 5 and Supergirl to auteur films and debut works. Our goal is to offer the public and industry professionals a wide-angle lens on what is shaping the future of cinema and television.

Q: You have an impressive lineup of international guests, including honorary president Harvey Keitel. Why is the presence of such iconic figures vital to the festival?

A: Having a legend like Harvey Keitel—whose career has left such a profound mark on cinema history—serves as a beacon for the festival. It’s not just about prestige; it’s about inspiration. These icons participate in masterclasses and dialogues with our students, who are the beating heart of the festival. It creates an invaluable mentorship dynamic that bridges generations of talent.

Q: The festival places a strong emphasis on young students and the future of the industry. What message do you want to send through this year’s poster, which focuses on movie theaters?

A: Our message is clear: movie theaters must not close. They are fundamental cultural centers where communities gather. Through initiatives like the collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Cinema Revolution, we are actively supporting the summer programming of cinemas to ensure they remain vibrant spaces for young people to discover the magic of film.

Q: You are also a champion for women in the industry. How does this edition continue to support female talent?

A: We are proud to renew our partnership with Women in Film, Television & Media Italia to showcase debut works by emerging female directors. From our ambassador Micaela Ramazzotti to the many guests receiving our “Women Power Award,” we are committed to highlighting the strength, uniqueness, and plurality of female voices in the audiovisual sector.

Q: Looking ahead, what do you hope will be the lasting impact of this 9th edition on the territory and the industry?

A: Sardinia is a land of extraordinary beauty that welcomes us with open arms, making the experience unique for everyone involved. We look to the future with ambition, aiming to continue fostering dialogue between education, the audiovisual industry, and new creative languages. This festival is a journey, and we are proud to write another important chapter for Sardinia and the global world of cinema.