‘Caravan’ Embarks on a Calabrian Journey at Cannes

the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, scheduled from May 13th to 24th, will feature Zuzana Kirchnerová’s debut film, Caravan, in the Un Certain Regard section. This selection underscores the festival’s commitment to showcasing innovative and diverse cinematic voices. Kirchnerová’s film, supported by the Calabria Film Commission Foundation, is a poetic road movie that finds its emotional core amidst the landscapes of Calabria, Italy.

From Emilia Romagna to Calabria: A Filming Odyssey

The production of Caravan spanned multiple regions, beginning with three weeks of shooting in Emilia Romagna. the crew then relocated to Calabria for an extensive five-week period, capturing the essence of the region across various locations. These included:

• Melito di Porto Salvo
• Bova
• Bova Marina
• Palizzi
• Condofuri
• Porto Saline Joniche
• Roghudi
• San Lorenzo
• Brancaleone
• Locri

The filming concluded in Moravia, Czech republic, completing the international journey of the production.

International Collaboration and Calabrian Cinema’s Rising Profile

Caravan is a collaborative effort between MasterFilm (Czech Republic), Nutprodukcia (Slovakia), and Storm Movie, helmed by Carlo Casto-Bine. Notably, Casto-Bine’s previous work, Of the Chimera, was in competition at cannes in 2023, demonstrating a consistent presence of Italian cinema on the international stage. Alice Rohrwacher’s Celestial Body, filmed entirely in Calabria, further exemplifies the region’s appeal to auteur filmmakers.

A Mother’s Journey: The Heart of ‘Caravan’

at the center of caravan is Ester, a 45-year-old mother of a son with intellectual disabilities. Feeling confined by her responsibilities, Ester embarks on a transformative journey. She steals an old caravan and sets off with her son, opening herself to the possibility of a new life and newfound freedom.This narrative resonates with contemporary themes of self-discovery and challenging societal expectations.

Cinema is not about reality,it is about what reality can become.

— Federico Fellini

Calabria: An Emerging Hub for Filmmaking

Calabria’s increasing prominence as a filming location is no accident. The Calabria Film Commission Foundation actively supports productions, attracting both Italian and international filmmakers. This support, combined with the region’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, positions Calabria as a rising star in the world of cinema.The region offers diverse settings, from coastal towns to mountainous interiors, providing filmmakers with a wealth of visual opportunities.

The Italian film industry is experiencing a resurgence, with government incentives and regional support playing a crucial role. in 2024, Italy saw a 15% increase in film production compared to the previous year, signaling a healthy and growing sector. Calabria is poised to benefit significantly from this trend.

“Caravan”: A Journey of Cinematic Collaboration

The film Caravan, a collaborative cinematic endeavor, is poised to make a meaningful impact at the upcoming Cannes Film Festival.This international project, filmed in various locations, including Calabria, has garnered ample support from numerous institutions and film commissions, highlighting its artistic merit and potential for success.

Extensive Support and Development

Caravan has secured backing from a diverse range of sources, including the Ministry of culture – Directorate general Cinema, the Emilia Romagna Film Commission, and the Calabria Film Commission. furthermore, the project has benefited from audiovisual funds from Toy and Slovakia, as well as support from broadcasters such as Art, RTVS, and Czech Television. The European program Eurimages has also contributed to the film’s development.

The film’s journey through the European Cinematic Development Circuit has been noteworthy, with participation in prestigious programs such as the Ales’s atelier, the Venice Production Bridge, and the Turinfilmlab. these selections underscore the project’s inherent quality and the strategic production choices made by the filmmakers, with the backing of the Calabria Film Commission playing a crucial role.

Calabrian Talent on the Global stage

Adding to the film’s allure is the presence of Mario Russo, a talented actor hailing from Calabria, within the cast. His involvement further solidifies the film’s connection to the region and its commitment to showcasing local talent on an international platform.

The Rise of Italian Cinema and Regional Film Commissions

The success of Caravan and its selection for Cannes reflects a broader trend of resurgence in Italian cinema. Regional film commissions, like the Calabria Film Commission, are playing an increasingly vital role in fostering local talent and attracting international productions. These commissions provide financial support, logistical assistance, and networking opportunities, contributing significantly to the growth and visibility of regional film industries.

“Regional film funds are becoming increasingly critically important for independent filmmakers, providing crucial support that allows them to tell unique stories and contribute to the cultural landscape.”

– Dr. Elena Rossi, Film industry Analyst

According to recent data from the Italian Ministry of Culture, regional film funds have contributed to a 25% increase in film production within the last five years, demonstrating their significant impact on the industry.

Looking Ahead: “Caravan” and the Future of Calabrian Cinema

As Caravan prepares to grace the screens at cannes, it represents not only a significant achievement for the filmmakers involved but also a promising sign for the future of Calabrian cinema.The film’s success could pave the way for more international collaborations and further investment in the region’s burgeoning film industry, solidifying Calabria’s position as a vibrant hub for cinematic creativity.

“Caravan” Set to Captivate Audiences at Prestigious Film Festival

Calabria is once again taking center stage at the Cannes Film Festival, this year with the highly anticipated film Caravan. This cinematic work promises to showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage and artistic talent to a global audience. The film’s selection underscores the growing recognition of Calabrian cinema on the international stage.

Un Certain Regard Jury Announced

The jury for the Un Certain Regard section of the Cannes Film Festival 2025 has been revealed. This year, the jury will be led by British director, screenwriter, and director of photography, Molly Manning Walker. Joining her are franco-Swiss director Louise Courvoisier, Vanja Kaludjercic, the director of the International Film Festival Rotterdam, italian director and screenwriter Roberto Minervini, and Argentine actor Nahuel Pérez Biscayart. This diverse panel of industry experts will evaluate twenty selected films,including nine debut features.

The Un Certain Regard prize in 2024 was awarded to Black dog by Guan Hu.

The Significance of “Un Certain Regard”

Un Certain Regard (A Certain Look) is a vital section of the Cannes Film Festival, highlighting films with unique visions and innovative storytelling. It serves as a platform for emerging filmmakers and distinctive voices in cinema. Winning this award can significantly boost a film’s international recognition and distribution prospects.

The selection of Caravan for this category is a testament to its artistic merit and potential to resonate with audiences worldwide. As the film industry evolves,festivals like cannes play a crucial role in identifying and promoting groundbreaking works that push the boundaries of cinematic expression.

Calabria’s Growing Film Industry

Calabria has seen a surge in film production in recent years, driven by both local talent and international collaborations. Government initiatives and funding programs have played a key role in fostering this growth. The region’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage provide a unique backdrop for filmmakers, attracting projects of various genres and scales.

According to recent data from the Italian Film Commission, Calabria has experienced a 30% increase in film productions over the past five years. This growth is not only boosting the local economy but also creating opportunities for aspiring filmmakers and technicians in the region.