Matilda De Angelis presents ‘Balcanica’ at Venice Film Festival

At the 83rd Venice International Film Festival, the film ‘Balcanica’ was presented during the ‘Giornate degli Autori’ section. Directed by Nicola Sorcinelli in his debut feature, the film explores themes of cultural repression, censorship, and the refugee experience.

The narrative follows an Afghan musician, Nazar, and his son, Jalil, as they flee Afghanistan via the Balkan route toward Italy to escape the prohibition of music and seek political asylum. During their journey, they encounter Greta, an Italian doctor played by Matilda De Angelis, who is on her first humanitarian mission.

De Angelis, who also served as an associate producer, highlighted the film’s focus on the intersection of art and creativity under censorship. She noted the character of Greta’s perspective, contrasting the privilege of her mobility with the life-altering decisions faced by those seeking refuge.