by InTrieste
The 24th edition of the Trieste Science+Fiction Festival, Italy’s foremost event celebrating the fantastic genre, is set to begin tomorrow, October 29, and will continue through Sunday, November 3, in the enchanting city of Trieste.
Hosted by La Cappella Underground, a center renowned for its film and audiovisual research, this year’s festival promises to deliver an impressive lineup. With over 50 world, international, and national premieres, attendees can expect a rich tapestry of films and discussions exploring the complexities of the genre. The festival will feature three competitive sections, welcoming filmmakers, actors, and writers from around the globe, alongside a myriad of side events including masterclasses, book presentations, exhibitions, and family-oriented activities.
The festivities will take place across multiple venues, including the historic Politeama Rossetti, which will showcase the competition films, and Teatro Miela, offering a diverse selection that spans short films, documentaries, and restored classics. New this year is the Sci-Fi Dome, which will focus on more experimental works, while the Xenia Room will host various events dedicated to genre literature.
Artistic Director Alan Jones outlined the festival’s central theme, stating, “The focus of Trieste Science+Fiction 2024 will revolve around the social and economic changes brought about by artificial intelligence systems in all areas of our lives. Our statement of intent this year is ‘BrAInstorm the MegaFuture,’ an urgent call for the global community to engage with these pressing issues.”
The opening night will kick off at 8:00 PM with a ceremonial welcome, followed by the Italian premiere of “MadS,” directed by David Moreau. Known for his previous works, including “Them – They Are Out There” and the American remake of “The Eye,” Moreau’s latest film presents a chilling fantasy-horror narrative, shot in a single continuous take, immersing viewers in the surreal and hallucinatory experiences of a teenager’s night.
Following this, a special preview screening of “The Substance,” directed by Coralie Fargeat, will take place at 10:30 PM. A standout at Cannes 2024, this visionary body horror film features Demi Moore in a compelling feminist narrative, further enriching the festival’s exploration of contemporary themes through imaginative storytelling.
As the Trieste Science+Fiction Festival unfolds, attendees can anticipate a captivating journey through cinema that engages with vital societal issues, solidifying Trieste’s role as a significant hub for science fiction and fantasy enthusiasts.
