The 55th Giffoni Film Festival, the international festival aimed at children and young people that takes place every year in Valle Piana begins today, July 17th. This year’s theme is Becoming Human — it’s a deep topic, but mostly it’s a way to explore what being human really means, using movies and creativity.
Today, at the Cittadella del Cinema, the opening ceremony will take place with the President of the Campania Region Vincenzo De Luca, Aurelio De Laurentiis — who is expected to attend a meeting in the IMPACT! section— and the world-renowned oncologist Paolo Ascierto, who will receive a special award.
The opening film of this new edition is Unicorni by Michela Andreozzi, starring Edoardo Pesce, Valentina Lodovini, and little Daniele Scardini, making his big screen debut. The cast and the director will meet the jurors in the Truffaut hall at 7 PM.
Distributed by 01 Distribution, the movie hits theaters on July 18th.
For the first day, they’re expecting Paralympic fencing champion Bebe Vio and singer-songwriter Nek.
Among the films in competition are Tomorrow I’ll Be Brave by Bernd Sahling (Germany) and Ella & Friends – Operation Otter by Elin Bronblom (Finland). The Parental Experience section will feature La vita da grandi by Greta Scarano (Italy).
There’s also outdoor cinema with the Celebration Nights series, kicking off tonight with Charlie Chaplin’s The Gold Rush to celebrate its 100th anniversary.
Among today’s events in the IMPACT! section is a meeting with the Regeni family and lawyer Alessandra Ballerini, who will join remotely.
Besides movies, lots of activities will be happening on the festival’s first day. Starting with the Giffoni Sport section, welcoming the ambassadors — 50 young people aged 16 to 30 from all over Italy — and the opening of the Lete Sport Arena at Hollywood Park, where you can try out different Olympic sports with pro instructors.
There’s also Giffoni Music Concept, Giffoni Food, and the Giffoni Street Fest, featuring theater, clown shows, workshops, and performances around the town square for both kids and adults.
Photo Credits: Pexels
