A generative voice
For thirty-two years, the Film Festival della Lessinia has steadfastly given voice to as many of the world's languages as possible. It will do so once again throughout the ten days of this year's program and its 107 events, in a determined act of resistance against the relentless tide of cultural homogenization that seems intent on sweeping away every difference. For if the seeds of diversity—of traditions preserved, of customs handed down, of an authentic bond with one's homeland—are still to bear fruit, they will do so in the mountains, in rural landscapes, in places beyond the reach of urban sprawl, and in the world's quieter margins. As we explored the theme of this 32nd edition—the mother tongue—we encountered voices calling for diversity, not out of ideological isolation, but from the vital need to draw sustanance from the roots of one's own history, just as we first learned the language of our childhood at our mother’s breast. During our ten days in Bosco Chiesanuova, we will be nourished by 83 films from 43 countries, including 27 Italian premieres. Alongside the film program, there will be books, exhibitions, conversations, workshops, excursions, concerts, and moments of conviviality, together creating a vibrant and precious Babel of cultures. Just as dialects and minority languages can fall silent, so too the Festival risks losing its original voice—its distinctive accent, the character that makes it immediately recognizable amid the vast sea of cinematic and cultural events, and the breath that gives it rhythm and purpose. That is why for the thirty-second consecutive year we will embrace these precious late- summer days in Bosco Chiesanuova as an opportunity not to lose ourselves: amid this chorus of voices from around the world, we are certain we will also recognize our own. To forget that voice would be to forget ourselves; to diminish it would be to diminish who we are. May the Film Festival della Lessinia be, for each and every one of you, dear friends, a voice that generates new voices.
Alessandro Anderloni
Artistic Director