Luc Besson, Emilie Blichfeldt Bookend Milano Film Fest

International cinema returns to Milan with the inaugural edition of the Milano Film Fest, taking place from June 3 to 8 across various cultural venues in the city, including the Piccolo Teatro Strehler and Cinema Anteo, under the artistic direction of actor Claudio Santamaria, CE Report quotes ANSA.

The musical program is curated by Manuel Agnelli.

Ten international films are competing in the feature-length section.

The jury awarding the Best Film will be chaired by James Franco, the renowned American director, actor, and screenwriter.

In total, 110 films are scheduled: “We received so many outstanding films from around the world, representing a wide range of genres and languages,” said Santamaria.

The festival will open with the international premiere of June & John by French director Luc Besson.

It will close with the Italian premiere of The Ugly Stepsister, a striking debut film by Emilie Blichfeldt.

“Milan, which we sometimes forget, has a historic presence in the field of film and audiovisual arts,” said Mayor Giuseppe Sala at the presentation held at Palazzo Marino (Milan’s City Hall).

“There are many private companies and initiatives, the Visconti film school, and by 2028, the new RAI production center.”

Agata De Laurentiis, head of film programming, added:

“We’ve created a lineup that reflects the rhythm of contemporary creativity, aiming to offer the Milanese public a full cinematic experience.”

The festival’s soundtrack will not be missing: sunset concerts will take place on the square in front of the Piccolo Teatro di Milano.

Music director Manuel Agnelli has selected 12 up-and-coming bands, two per evening from June 3–8.

“We hope to spark a new trend and awaken curiosity,” Agnelli concluded.