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Nestled in the heart of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the island of Ischia is once again the stage for one of the world’s most culturally resonant cinematic events: the 23rd edition of the Ischia Global Film & Music Festival, running from July 6 to 13, 2025. This year’s theme—solidarity, respect, and dialogue among peoples—is more than a slogan; it’s a mission statement for an industry grappling with global unrest and the urgent need for unity.
With 180 films and 120 international stars, the festival is a vibrant mosaic of storytelling, activism, and artistic excellence. From Hollywood legends to emerging European talents, the lineup reflects a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Among the most anticipated premieres are Conspiracy of Fear by Kayla Tabish, featuring Steven Bauer and Malcolm McDowell, and Tornado by John Maclean, starring Tim Roth.
The festival’s opening day honors three figures whose work transcends entertainment: Karla Sofia Gascón, the first transgender actress nominated for an Oscar, returns to Ischia after her Cannes triumph in Emilia Perez. She will receive the “People Award” in recognition of her advocacy for inclusion. Francesco Di Leva, known for his socially engaged theater work in Naples, and Dario D’Ambrosi, founder of Rome’s Teatro Patologico, will be awarded the “Humanitarian Award” for their groundbreaking contributions to therapeutic theater.
Presiding over the jury is American director Catherine Hardwicke, best known for Twilight, alongside Irish filmmaker Jim Sheridan, whose presence underscores the festival’s commitment to nurturing young talent. Italian icons such as Franco Nero, Lina Sastri, and Donatella Finocchiaro will also grace the red carpet, while Oscar winners like Bille August and Nick Vallelonga lend gravitas to the proceedings.
Beyond the glitz, the festival is a platform for serious reflection. Organizers have emphasized the role of cinema in promoting peace and cultural understanding, especially in a time marked by geopolitical tensions and social fragmentation. “We are living through a summer of global anxiety,” said producer Pascal Vicedomini. “But the arts must persist—not just to entertain, but to heal and inspire.”
Public screenings will be held across Ischia, from the Cinema Excelsior to open-air piazzas in Casamicciola and Lacco Ameno. Audiences can also access select films online, ensuring that the festival’s message reaches beyond the island’s shores.
In a world increasingly divided, the Ischia Global Film & Music Festival stands as a beacon of hope—where stories become bridges, and art becomes a language of peace.