The 76th Locarno Film Festival

Recently, I embarked on a captivating fortnight at the distinguished Locarno Film Festival in the picturesque town of Locarno, Switzerland. Those acquainted with my previous work may already be aware, while newcomers are about to learn, that I oversee a prominent film festival in London. Following an invitation in 2021 to lead a delegation to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, what ensued has become an annual pilgrimage to various esteemed film festivals. Over time, I've been privy to countless tales about Locarno, and in the past year, it was unanimously decided that 2023 would mark our participation in this esteemed event within the cinematic calendar.

Positioned in the southern reaches of the country, Locarno graces the Italian sector of Switzerland, nestled specifically within the Ticino region. As the Locarno Film Festival enters its 76th year, each iteration builds upon the foundations of its predecessor, creating an ever-evolving tapestry of cinematic excellence. This grand occasion, larger than one might fathom, was manifestly evident on its opening day, as 3,000 enthusiasts congregated on a Wednesday afternoon to witness the screening of a nearly centennial film, Alfred Hitchcock's timeless masterpiece "The Lodger." Beyond the recent restoration, what truly elevated the experience was the live orchestral accompaniment. It's both striking and humbling to see a sizable audience gathered to view an age-old silent movie that often garners minimal attention in contemporary society.

A notable aspect of this festival is the nocturnal gathering of up to 8,000 attendees for screenings on the grand Piazza Grande, arguably one of the globe's most significant outdoor cinema showcases. During our sojourn, we were treated to five remarkable films on this majestic platform. These selections represented the zenith of the festival's offerings – an unparalleled experience for any filmmaker. Picture the scenario: introducing a modest or even budget-constrained creation to an audience on an expansive stage, locking eyes with 8,000 individuals eager to experience YOUR work. Regrettably, the initial two nights were marred by rain, prompting us to forego the second screening on the first night, as we were quite literally drenched. For context, imagine filling a warm bath and then tipping it over your head. Interestingly, my choice of dark red shoes, almost resembling wine hues, left my feet still tinted with the crimson dye weeks later, an amusing memento from that fateful downpour.

The Piazza Grande immersion defies comparison. Have you ever attended a cinema screening and witnessed individuals extracting their phones to multitask during the viewing? They might even switch to their preferred TikTok video, perhaps an engaging dance routine, with the volume on full blast. Such distractions are notably absent here. Understandably, at the outset, phones capture the spectacle, the congregation, the monumental screen, and the luminaries in attendance. However, once the movie commences, the phones recede, and the audience is captivated – a collective engagement that remains unbroken, unless the heavens decide to shower rain. The local residents of Locarno deeply appreciate the festival's impact, embracing the cinematic artistry it brings to their relatively modest town.

Let's delve into the support structure. It's nearly impossible to stroll by a storefront without encountering the distinct insignias of the Locarno Film Festival. From vibrant rolls of paper to the emblematic leopard (the festival's mascot), yellow dots adorning windows, and even art installations – local businesses wholeheartedly embrace this monumental event. Venturing 20 miles from Locarno reveals establishments and eateries adorned as tributes to the festival. When approaching by train, advertisements commence just prior to the Italian border. Without a shadow of doubt, Locarno stands as one of Europe's, if not the world's, preeminent festivals.

For filmmakers, the festival's allure lies in its inclusivity. While it wholeheartedly champions cinematic opuses that garnered accolades at Cannes, it extends a respectful nod to the novices. A range of features were showcased at an educational campus during its summer hiatus, works of emerging auteurs. Paralleling this, the festival screened classic pieces from Italian Cinema, the 1960s Mexican gem "The Batwoman," and a director's cut of a Sergio Leone documentary. However, the festival goes further. It showcases incomplete works like "All At Sea," a documentary wherein the late, great director Mike Hodges reminisces about his life journey from his days in the navy to becoming a filmmaker, ruminating on life's intricacies. Notably, the film featured unapproved footage, presumably to raise awareness and secure funding for the clearance of certain segments. Consequently, audiences are treated to a distinct glimpse into the future. Such an approach is undeniably inspiring and serves as a precedent for our own festival. Additionally, the festival celebrates both children-oriented and experimental cinema, discreetly maintaining a distinction between these genres.

As night descends, La Rotunda metamorphoses into a lively epicenter, where musicians and DJs regale thousands with their melodies. This circular event venue, situated at the core of a roundabout (or rather, a recessed roundabout), pulsates with music, art, and culture, affording attendees a chance to temporarily depart from the cinematic realm and immerse themselves in revelry.

Education becomes omnipresent, with panel discussions on women in film, insights from esteemed editors and directors, and the retelling of legends' life stories in an open-air auditorium. Keen listeners, often using translation headsets, absorb these anecdotes. The sheer depth of knowledge disseminated is awe-inspiring.

For professionals like myself, an array of activities awaits. Engaging meetings, exclusive film screenings poised for market release, and dialogues with producers and film companies to explore potential collaborations comprise the agenda. The majority of these interactions are centered around a sprawling hilltop hotel, an establishment deserving of a gratifying libation each time one ascends. Yet, should the hill appear too daunting, minibusses ferry attendees to their destinations, provided they possess a festival pass.

Above all, witnessing the festival's interaction with its audience is utterly compelling. Teenagers convene en masse to relish both cinematic classics and lesser-known gems, partaking in a memorable experience. Octogenarians leisurely gather at the Piazza for midnight screenings, joining thousands in celebrating this communal tradition. This event marks a true fixture on the calendar, rallying communities and reviving the fading art of communal engagement. Amid this multitude, harmony prevails – no discord, no littering. Thousands of individuals revel in visual artistry, forging bonds and even sparking new affections. It's a pulsating heart, an event that redefines the realm of film in ways that transcend expectation. To the Locarno Film Festival, I extend my utmost respect. In a world at times tarnished by corruption and decay, you stand as a radiant beacon of beauty and authenticity.