Organized by Fondazione Sistema Toscana, the Toscana Film Commission, the City of Florence, Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Firenze, and the Florence Chamber of Commerce, with contributions from the Ministry of Tourism and Fondazione CR Firenze, with Italian talents also receiving the spotlight.
The 11th edition of the 50 Days of Cinema in Florence series sees a new collaboration with David di Donatello and the establishment of the Italian Rising Stars award. The initiative in collaboration with the Academy of Italian Cinema Premi David di Donatello awards young actors capable of reaching a global audience.
Stefania Ippoliti, Director of the Toscana Film Commission, commented,
“The idea emerged because we desired to see our cinema become more widespread throughout the world. Marcello Mastroianni and Sofia Loren, for example, are known all over, but we have many other Italian film stars that could reach an international platform if given the support; the aim is to work alongside emerging talent. Florence was chosen because Donatello’s David is here in the Bargello, representing the story of a young man who comes up against a giant. It’s a nice idea to symbolize how our cinema is full of talent that, with just a bit of strength, can come up against the world. This is a city full of culture, art, and institutions that contribute to them.”
Produced by Quelli della Compagnia, the 50 Days idea came about in 2007 in order to build unity around the many international festivals based in Florence, creating an opportunity for visitors and residents of Florence to make the most of the vibrant cinema scene in the city. Unique of its kind in the national and European film scene, over 150 films make up the packed programme, representing 20 countries from around the world and with over 300 hours of programming. Many meetings with directors and actors are featured, with special events organized by the individual festivals. Film fans will no doubt be drawn to the launch event planned for the end of September, which will see special guests and an exciting preview. All of the events are open to the public, and many are shown in Cinema La Compagnia on via Cavour which boasts an ample 460 seats for all those passionate about cinema.
The internationality of the city’s cinema scene is also something Stefania Ippoliti reflected upon:
“Our public is made up of many foreigners who are here for study or for work, not only tourists. It’s also a good opportunity for Italians who could come to Tuscany over the course of the festival to enjoy the programme as well as the sites”.
