What will you be bringing to the Festival? What’s new? What’s returning?

TM: One of the highlights of this year’s Festival is the program. Rachele and I are really proud of what we’ve managed to put together: it’s very diverse, not only in terms of themes and genres but also in terms of origin—in fact, we’ll be presenting films from both Europe and beyond, and we can’t wait to show them to the audience. We hope to bring a breath of fresh air and a new vision to the Festival. We’ve also confirmed Amarcorti, because we believe it’s important to give a voice to young people who are taking their first steps in the world of cinema. The goal is to… showcase… serve as a platform to show their short films to the world. The prizes up for grabs? Just wait and see—they’re incredible!

RP: As it does every year, the UFF will present Italian premieres and previews of international films, coming straight from the most prestigious film festivals—Berlin, Cannes, Venice—all screened in their original languages with English and Italian subtitles. Of course, the Keys Ceremony will also take place to celebrate the artistic achievements of a prominent figure in the film industry. Once again this year, young children will have the chance to explore the world of cinema through a selection of short films chosen just for them and to pick their favorite through the Children’s Jury. AmarCorti will continue with its third edition, presenting short films by young Italian directors to the public, with a new twist: three Italian talents will select the most deserving short film. We’re also particularly proud to have involved the Umbrian Academies of Fine Arts by launching a call for entries to design the poster for the 27th edition of the Festival. We can’t wait to see the new artwork on the streets of Montone!

What’s the formula for a perfect UFF?

TM: The Umbria Film Festival is made up primarily of the people who work there: we’re a group of young people passionate about the world of cinema. It’s precisely the wonderful relationship we share and the strong bond that has formed among us that drives us to work in harmony, creating a wonderful atmosphere. The ideal formula for a perfect UFF is this: a group of people who all care deeply about the project, do their work with passion, and take pride in bringing great independent cinema to the public.

RP: A show that stirs the emotions, eliciting both roaring laughter and deep reflection—one that sheds light on little-known realities and stories, offering quality entertainment for everyone!

Did you get any advice from Vanessa Strizzi?

TM: More than just advice, I’d say that Vanessa has inspired us with a deep passion—a passion for cinema and for the Umbria Film Festival. It’s thanks to her that we’ve come to understand the Festival’s mission and just how important it is to bring independent films of the highest quality to Italy and to fans of arthouse cinema.

RP: Working closely with Vanessa Strizzi during the past three editions of the Festival has been a great source of inspiration overall. Her keen eye for changes and trends in the industry has helped us realize just how important it is to turn a film festival into an alternative film distribution channel—one that is still capable of reaching the general public. Thanks to her, we’ve come to appreciate just how special it is to have a platform to bring these new films to audiences, and how essential it is to do so in an accessible way, creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome regardless of their familiarity with independent cinema.

Are you ready?

TM: Ready to go, just like Frodo on his way to Mordor.

RP: Of course! I’m sure this box will have the best chocolates!