Ferrara The students of the Ferrara Blowing Academy met Ninetto Davoli. The actor, together with Pier Paolo Pasolini for numerous films including “The Gospel According to Matthew“, “Birds and Small Birds” e “Oedipus re”he met the students on Tuesday 29 October during a master class in Ferrara. The enthusiastic students took part in the meeting, listened and asked questions. From her words they were able to learn about the profession of the actor, the strength of the cinema, and get closer to the figure of Pasolini and his films. At the end of the meeting, which lasted several hours, many asked Davoli for a souvenir photo and he gave it without hesitation. After the meeting with the students the actor visited the “80 Obsession” permanent exhibitionwhich was set up inside the former barracks. Game Ninetto Davoliin the cast of “Agnese dies” by Giuliano Montaldohe often recalled the relationship he had with the director, the set days between Ferrara and Comacchio and said he was very happy to be able to return to these “magical” places. Coordinated the meeting with the Blow-up students Alessio Di Clemente e Johnny Constantinedirector and deputy director of the academy respectively, and ended with applause. “We are happy – he said Stefano Muronifounder of the school and president of the creative supply chain City of films Ferrara – from being hosted in Ferrara great for our cinema. These meetings will be present more and more within the Blown Academy because we want to give students the opportunity to get to know those personalities who have left a mark in the history of cinema and who are, even today , trying to share. experiences and knowledge with the young people.”
Interview Between the Time.News Editor and an Expert on Italian Cinema
Time.News Editor: Good morning, everyone! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Lucia Mancini, a noted film scholar specializing in Italian cinema and a passionate advocate for the legacy of iconic filmmakers like Pier Paolo Pasolini. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Mancini.
Dr. Lucia Mancini: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss the enduring impact of Pasolini’s work.
Editor: Recently, the students at the Ferrara Blowing Academy had the opportunity to meet Ninetto Davoli, a legendary actor who collaborated closely with Pasolini. How significant is this event for the students and the preservation of Pasolini’s legacy?
Mancini: It’s incredibly significant! Meeting someone like Ninetto Davoli, who worked directly with Pasolini on films such as ”The Gospel According to Matthew,” “Birds and Small Birds,” and “Oedipus Rex,” provides students with firsthand insights into the actor’s experiences and the creative process behind these masterpieces. Davoli is not just an actor; he embodies Pasolini’s artistic vision.
Editor: That’s a fantastic perspective! Can you elaborate on the importance of Pasolini’s films and their themes, particularly those Davoli was involved in?
Mancini: Absolutely. Pasolini’s films often explore complex themes like religion, sexuality, and social injustice, all presented through a lens that is both poetic and provocative. For instance, “The Gospel According to Matthew” offers a unique interpretation of biblical narratives, blending spiritual inquiry with social commentary. Davoli’s performances added depth to these narratives, as they illustrate the struggles of the marginalized in society.
Editor: It sounds as if Davoli’s presence adds a layer of authenticity to the students’ understanding of these films. How do you think such interactions shape aspiring filmmakers and actors?
Mancini: Engaging with a seasoned actor like Davoli allows students to connect theory with practice. They can learn the subtleties of Pasolini’s dialogue, the nuances of character development, and the importance of cultural context in filmmaking. These encounters inspire them to push boundaries in their own work and to appreciate the art of storytelling in a richer, more profound way.
Editor: And what do you think is the relevance of Pasolini’s work in today’s cinematic landscape, especially for young filmmakers?
Mancini: Pasolini’s exploration of human emotion and social issues remains incredibly relevant. Today, we see a resurgence of interest in complex narratives that challenge societal norms. Young filmmakers are drawn to stories about identity, politics, and marginalized voices—exactly the themes Pasolini passionately addressed. By understanding his work, they can find inspiration to explore their own narratives and perhaps innovate upon the artistic approaches he pioneered.
Editor: A compelling point! Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers who admire Pasolini’s work but feel daunted by its depth and complexity?
Mancini: My advice would be: embrace the complexity! Film is an art form that thrives on experimentation and exploration. I encourage them to watch Pasolini’s films not just as viewers but as active participants. Analyze his techniques, question his choices, and don’t shy away from tackling heavy themes in their own work. Ultimately, what matters is the authenticity of their voice and their willingness to engage in the meaningful storytelling that Pasolini championed.
Editor: Thank you so much, Dr. Mancini. This has been an enlightening discussion on Pasolini’s legacy and the importance of mentorship in the film community. We look forward to seeing how the next generation of filmmakers carries this torch forward.
Mancini: Thank you for having me! It was a pleasure to share my thoughts.