A Cinematic Journey Through Contemporary Gems and Restored Classics
The Habitat International Film Festival (HIFF) 2025 brings Italy into the limelight as the Focus Country, offering an extraordinary cinematic experience in collaboration with the Italian Embassy Cultural Centre, Cineteca di Bologna, and L’Immagine Ritrovata. This year’s special focus delivers an immersive journey through Italy’s rich film heritage, blending contemporary masterpieces with meticulously restored classics for Indian audiences.
Italian Screens Returns to HIFF 2025
A key highlight of the Italian Focus is the much-anticipated return of Italian Screens, an initiative dedicated to showcasing the best of modern Italian cinema while fostering international creative collaboration. Roberto Stabile, Head of the International Department at Cinecittà, underscores the significance of this initiative:
“We are excited to return to New Delhi for the fourth edition of Italian Screens. This platform not only brings the finest contemporary Italian films to Indian audiences but also promotes tax incentives for distribution and co-productions. With the support of the Italian Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, we aim to strengthen Indo-Italian creative partnerships and present new funding opportunities.”
A Dual Celebration: Contemporary Films and Cinematic Legends
Curated by Stefano Francia di Celle, former director of the Torino Film Festival and head of the RAI movie archive, the Italian Focus at HIFF 2025 is crafted around two major segments. The first presents a handpicked selection of the most acclaimed Italian films from 2024, spanning an array of genres—from gripping thrillers and profound dramas to heartwarming romantic comedies—reflecting the diversity and dynamism of modern Italian cinema.
The second segment honors the centenary of Marcello Mastroianni, one of Italy’s most celebrated actors. This retrospective revisits his iconic performances, offering audiences a chance to rediscover the timeless charm and versatility that made him a global cinematic legend.
Stefano Francia di Celle explains, “Our vision is to present a panoramic view of Italian cinema across generations. Through contemporary works and restored classics, we aim to celebrate the artistic depth and cinematic excellence that define Italy’s film legacy.”
Opening with a Masterpiece and Restoring Cinematic Heritage
The festival opens with a special tribute to acclaimed filmmaker Marco Tullio Giordana, featuring the screening of his latest psychological thriller, The Life Apart. This evocative narrative sets the tone for a festival brimming with compelling storytelling and cinematic innovation.
A significant element of the Italian Focus is the spotlight on film preservation. Audiences will experience restored masterpieces from visionaries like Federico Fellini and Vittorio De Sica, whose works defined the golden age of Italian cinema. A particularly rare treat is the restored version of Satyajit Ray’s Apu Trilogy, reflecting the profound influence of De Sica’s neorealism on Ray’s filmmaking style.
“These restored classics allow us to revisit the golden era of Italian cinema while celebrating the tireless efforts of preservationists,” Stefano emphasizes. “They serve as a vital link between the past and present, preserving the artistry of cinema for future generations.”
Expert Insights and Cultural Exchange
Beyond the screenings, the festival offers a deeper dive into the art and science of cinema. Celine Pozzi from L’Immagine Ritrovata will lead a specialized workshop on film restoration, providing invaluable insights into the meticulous process of preserving cinematic heritage. In collaboration with the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, the festival also expands the dialogue to include the preservation of archaeological and cultural legacies.
Andrea Anastasio, Director of the Italian Embassy Cultural Centre, highlights the broader cultural vision: “Cinema, much like literature, inspires creativity and fosters a sense of community. At a time when screens dominate our digital lives, the shared experience of watching films on the big screen remains irreplaceable. We are grateful to Cineteca di Bologna, the Italian Ministry of Culture, and all our partners for bringing this vision to life. Special thanks to the India Habitat Centre for their continued support in making this festival possible.”
Strengthening Indo-Italian Cultural Ties
With its carefully curated films, expert-led workshops, and engaging discussions, the Italian Focus at HIFF 2025 promises to be a cultural milestone. This unique celebration not only honors Italy’s cinematic legacy but also deepens the creative dialogue between India and Italy, reinforcing the timeless power of cinema as a bridge between cultures.
Whether you’re an avid cinephile or someone eager to explore international cinema, the Italian Focus at HIFF 2025 invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Italian storytelling and artistic brilliance.
List of films screened at the Italian Focus at HIFF 2025
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Pics credits-habitatworld.com
