by InTrieste
Friuli Venezia Giulia is set to make a notable appearance at this year’s Venice International Film Festival, showcasing a slate of Italian films that highlight the region’s growing prominence in the film industry. The 81st edition of the prestigious festival, running from August 28 to September 7, will feature two films in official competition and one in world premiere, further establishing Friuli Venezia Giulia as a vital hub for cinema.
A Historic Showcase
This morning’s press conference revealed that “Campo di Battaglia,” directed by Gianni Amelio, has been selected for the official competition. Amelio’s film, a period piece set during World War I, explores the complex dynamics between two doctors in a military hospital and their shared love for the same woman. Filmed in various locations across Friuli Venezia Giulia, including Udine, Venzone, Tolmezzo, Codroipo, Cormons, and Gorizia, the production involved over 20 local technicians and 520 extras. The film stars Alessandro Borghi, Gabriel Montesi, and Federica Rosellini. It promises to deliver a gripping narrative while examining themes of medical ethics and human connection in wartime.
The festival will also feature a world premiere of “M. Il Figlio del Secolo,” a Sky Original series based on the bestselling novel by Antonio Scurati. The series, directed by Joe Wright, dramatizes the rise of Benito Mussolini and the birth of fascism in Italy. With Luca Marinelli portraying Mussolini, the series was filmed between Gorizia and Aquileia, involving over 20 local professionals. It will be available exclusively on Sky and streaming on NOW in 2025.
Expanding Horizons
In addition to the main competition, Friuli Venezia Giulia will be represented in the Orizzonti section with “Wishing on a Star,” a documentary by Péter Kerekes. Produced by Videomante, the film follows a Neapolitan astrologer who guides her clients to spend their birthdays in specific locations for new celestial influences. Filming took place in Friuli Venezia Giulia, further spotlighting the region’s diverse and scenic locales.
The Giornate degli Autori section will feature “Alpha” by Jan-Willem van Ewijk, a film that received logistical support from the FVG Film Commission. The movie, set in the Sella Nevea ski area and also filmed in Slovenia and Switzerland, benefited from local resources including the use of cable cars and technical equipment. The film’s production involved three weeks of shooting in the region, supported by the Municipality of Chiusaforte.
A Region on the Rise
Friuli Venezia Giulia’s increased visibility on the international stage underscores the region’s burgeoning appeal to filmmakers. The FVG Film Commission – PromoTurismoFVG has been instrumental in this rise, offering financial and logistical support to major productions. Sergio Emidio Bini, Regional Councillor for Production Activities and Tourism, remarked on the significance of this year’s festival representation: “This is a testament to the region’s unique appeal and the exceptional work done by the Film Commission. We are becoming a model for national and international film production.”
The festival will also host an event organized by FVG Film Commission – PromoTurismoFVG to present the eight winning short films from the “Corti senza Confine” competition. The presentation will take place at the Italian Pavilion on August 30.
