Seven acclaimed Italian films recently lit up the screens at the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival, captivating audiences and strengthening the cinematic bond between Italy and China. As part of the Italian Screens program, the showcase featured a diverse array of films, from romantic comedies to profound dramas, highlighting Italy’s rich storytelling tradition.
Among the featured films were “FolleMente” and “Il Nibbio,” which received enthusiastic responses from Chinese cinephiles. After the screening of “FolleMente,” director Paolo Genovese charmed the audience by joking, “After ‘Perfect Strangers’ made couples break up, this time I want people to fall in love!” The event fostered warm exchanges between Italian filmmakers and local film enthusiasts.
Roberto Stabile of Italy’s Cinema Department expressed optimism about the cultural exchange, stating, “We hope Chinese audiences can sample Italy’s charm through movies.” The Italian Screens initiative, backed by an annual fund of €2 million, aims to distribute Italian films worldwide, offering financial support of up to €50,000 per title for overseas releases.
This partnership is already showing promising results. Earlier this year, Paola Cortellesi’s “There’s Still Tomorrow” earned 45 million yuan at the Chinese box office, demonstrating the growing appreciation for Italian cinema in China. These cultural exchanges continue to strengthen the ties between the film industries of the two nations, opening doors for future collaborations.
As Italian films continue to resonate with Chinese audiences, the cinematic bridge between Italy and China promises to enrich both cultures, inspiring creativity and mutual understanding among filmmakers and audiences alike.
