The documentary film “Qui è altro: Buchi nella realtà”, written and directed by Gianfranco Pannone, continues its journey in Italian theaters, offering an unprecedented image of the prison system. Distributed by Bartlebyfilm, it will be screened in Naples at the Cinema Posillipo, Wednesday, March 26 at 20.45:XNUMX p.m.
The presentation will be accompanied by the director himself, who will illustrate the film inspired by the experience of Armando Punzo and the Compagnia della Fortezza in the prison of Volterra, followed by a debate moderated by Prof. Arturo Lando of the Suor Orsola Benincasa University of Naples.
A Different Prison
The Volterra prison, under the guidance of Armando Punzo, is home to the Compagnia della Fortezza, a theater collective that has been active for over 35 years within the Fortezza Medicea. This renowned initiative is part of the project “Per Aspera ad Astra”, promoted by Acri and supported by various banking foundations, involving participants of all ages in theater activities that go beyond the physical confines of the penitentiary.
A Concrete Utopia
“Qui è altro: Buchi nella realtà” began its journey at the Festival dei Popoli, taking part in important events such as the MedFilm Festival and the Parma Film Festival. The film focuses on the project ATLANTIS chap. 1 – La soggiorno, documenting the commitment of Punzo and his actors in the prison-theater as a symbol of hope and renewal.
Per Aspera ad Astra Project
"Per Aspera ad Astra ," says Donatella Pieri, President of Acri's Cultural Heritage and Activities Commission, " aims to regenerate the prison system through the power of culture. The initiative involves theater groups and prisons, providing inmates with training opportunities in theater, aiming to overcome prejudice and promote artistic and cultural renewal." The documentary, produced by Bartlebyfilm and Aura Film, together with RSI – Swiss Radio and Television, Acri, and other organizations, has already received awards at several film festivals.
The documentary film about this prison is very interesting but I think there are many problems that could be talked about more. Culture is important but it is not enough to solve everything. We hope that many people will see it.
I also think it is a complicated topic and that deserves attention. Theatrical activities can help but there are many other aspects of prison that should be explored better.