The third edition of ITALIAN SCREENS – New Italian Cinema Goes Abroad has officially launched in Hong Kong. The opening night played to a full house with the highly anticipated screening of FolleMente, directed by Paolo Genovese, who was present in the theater for a lively and well-received discussion with the audience following the film.
“I’m delighted to be back in Hong Kong after many years with this film and to have received such an extraordinary welcome,” said the director. “The first screening in a theater with a new audience is always an emotional moment, especially for comedies. It’s when you truly understand whether a film works.”
The event was organized by the Consulate General of Italy in Hong Kong, the Italian Cultural Institute in Hong Kong, and the International Department of Cinecittà/DGCA, in collaboration with Broadway Cinematheque.
Carmelo Ficarra, Consul General of Italy in Hong Kong, emphasized the broader cultural significance of the initiative: “We are pleased to present the third edition of Italian Screens. This event is part of the Autumn Festival ITALIA on Stage, organized by the Consulate General and the Italian Cultural Institute in partnership with all Italian institutions and associations in the city. The festival is designed to celebrate the very best of Italian culture, art, and lifestyle in Hong Kong. We are especially proud to present Italian Screens in Hong Kong for the third consecutive year, given the city’s strong cinematic tradition and the tremendous potential for creative synergy and collaboration with Italy.”
Roberto Stabile, creator of the Italian Screens project, commented: “We continue to actively support the international distribution of FolleMente on this leg of its journey through China. Following the special screening at the Shanghai International Film Festival, which served as a preview before its release, we are now here in Hong Kong and hope the local audience will embrace both the film and the entire showcase with equal enthusiasm. Bringing high-quality Italian cinema abroad is a fundamental mission to support our industry and promote cultural dialogue.”
In addition to Paolo Genovese’s FolleMente, Italian Screens will present four other major titles from contemporary Italian cinema in their Hong Kong premiere, running from September 15 to October 5:
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The Greart Ambition by Andrea Segre
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The Time It Takes by Francesca Comencini
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Outside by Mario Martone
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Diamonds by Ferzan Özpetek
