Italian cinema will be well represented across multiple competition categories, showcasing the country’s diverse storytelling and visual innovation. The selected films include:
• "Playing God" – Directed by Matteo Burani, this film is part of the International Competition, one of the festival’s most prestigious sections. The film is expected to bring an intriguing and thought-provoking narrative to the global audience.
• "The Eggregore's Theory" – Directed by Andrea Gatopoulos, this short film has been selected for the Lab Competition, a section dedicated to experimental and boundary-pushing storytelling. Gatopoulos' work promises to explore complex themes through innovative cinematic techniques.
• "La Voix des Sirènes" – Directed by Gianluigi Toccafondo, this film will also compete in the Lab Competition. Known for his distinctive visual style, Toccafondo's work is anticipated to be a highlight of the experimental category.
• "Dark Globe" – Directed by Donato Sansone, this entry is included in the National Competition, representing an interesting case of an Italian director with a French production. Sansone’s work has previously gained recognition for its bold and unique visual approach, making "Dark Globe" a highly anticipated film in the lineup.
The 47th Clermont-Ferrand Festival is set to celebrate global creativity, with programs such as XR Panorama, Young Audience screenings, and a special focus on short films by the new generation of African filmmakers. The festival continues to be a crucial launchpad for emerging talents, offering a platform where filmmakers can connect with industry professionals, distributors, and audiences from all over the world.
For Italy, having multiple films in competition highlights the growing influence of its short film industry and its ability to captivate international audiences with fresh, bold, and innovative storytelling.
With just days before the festival’s start, anticipation is high for the Italian filmmakers who will present their work to a global stage. Their participation underscores Italy’s vibrant cinematic culture and its contribution to the evolving landscape of short films.
