Siff 2024 | 21st Edition

This touching film tells the story of women’s emancipation in post-war Calabria. Although it is set in the past, the message of women’s redemption and liberation has a strong impact even in the present, making it a universal work. The jury appreciated the film’s ability to address profound themes with great sensitivity.

Marco Leonardi impressed everyone with his intense interpretation of a complex character, struggling with the family and social dynamics of the time. His performance made a fundamental contribution to the success of the film.

The soundtrack played a key role in enriching the atmosphere of the film. Pulvirenti’s music was able to strengthen the cultural ties of the protagonists, accompanying their aspirations for freedom.

Howra Batool won the Best Actress award for her incredible performance in Fences. In a hostile and difficult cultural context like Pakistan, her performance as a mother struggling to raise her son alone, despite her precarious health conditions, was described as intense and moving. Batool was able to convey all the emotions of a woman who challenges a world dominated by men, demonstrating extraordinary strength.

His Mother won in the Women in Cinema category for her masterful interpretation of a mother who struggles against pain and helplessness, trying to protect her son even when all seems lost. Scalia explored with great intensity the many forms of loneliness, offering the audience an unforgettable emotional experience.

Frarìa impressed the jury with the way it addressed the issue of disability through an intimate and personal emotional relationship. The film uses the metaphor of fire and light to tell difficult and conscious choices, made visually powerful by extraordinary photography.

This short stood out for its narrative depth and the delicacy with which it explored themes such as memory and loss. Croft’s ability to create an emotional connection with the viewer, combining evocative images and a masterful use of sound, made Easy as Opening Your Eyes one of the most touching and worthy works of this year.

The animated short Supertrump won for its ability to tell a story that explores the persistence of innocence, capable of resisting the adversities of time and space. Director Gammardella was able to move the audience with a simple but powerful narrative, which celebrates humanity and hope.