For a few hours, seven high school students leave their school desks to settle comfortably in the cinema seats at the Palais des Congrès in Ajaccio. From November 11 to 19, their mission is to elect the best film for the “young jury” prize during the Italian Film Festival.
Singing accent, speaking with the hands and above all waves of intense emotions: it’s the return of Italian cinema! For the 24th edition of the Film Festival in Ajaccio in Corsica, at the Palais des Congrès, no less than 17 films are on the program, including 11 in competition. Four prestigious prizes will reward the best films in the selection, starting with the Serge Leca prize, founder of the festival, the Media and Libraries prize di u pumontethe public vote and the “young jury” prize.
At the heart of the action
Carefully selected to compose the “young jury”, seven students from the Fesch high school are preparing to play a crucial role for the 24th edition of the Italian Film Festival in Ajaccio. They have one week, from November 11 to 19, to organize their schedule and become a truly exceptional jury. Responsible for awarding the prestigious prize for best film, the young critics must not miss a single second of the eleven films in the selection. Enough to bring a fresh look at the Italian film scene.
Among the small group, Sarah, Lisa and Cassandra, aged 15 to 18, walk with pride towards the projection room. They make their way through the queue, ready to move on to the other side of the film festivals they are used to watching on television. To be selected by their teachers, they all had one thing in common: being passionate about Italy or cinema.
A cinema lover, to judge the films, Lisa has already developed the criteria which will influence her choice: “I have a sensitivity to certain genres and others less so, I will also observe the beauty of the images, the acting and whether I am carried by the story or not.” Even the technical aspects do not escape him, proof of an increased knowledge of the cinematographic world.
A selection of brands
The films offered are often inspired by true stories and contemporary themes where it is easier to identify. From World War II to the story of a homosexual adopting a child, these films reflect the current realities of Italy. Some of them will never be broadcast in France. These feature films are transcribed specifically for the festival. A touch of exclusivity that adds a touch of magic to their first cinematic experience.
And the opportunities don’t stop there, the young jury meets the directors, shares with them their sincere impressions before rewarding the film that really left an impression on them. Moretti, Mollo, Garonne, and Sollima… Names that resonate with Italian cinema fans.
At the end of this intense week of cinematic discoveries, the final verdict will be pronounced: which film will win the 2023 Young Jury Prize?
Italian Film Festival:
from November 11 to 19, high school students have the mission of electing the best film for the “young jury” prize. – (FRANCE 3 CORSE C. Lerouxel / F. Rombaldi / R. Cesari)
Five sessions per day during the week and six on weekends, mornings reserved for school spectators. Ticket prices: 6.50 euros, 4 euros reduced rate.