Emma Barboni, Emilia Romagna Film Commission

Emma Barboni, of the Emilia Romagna Film Commission comes to talk with Fred Radio about the participation of her institution at the Venice International Film festival, both for the usual meetings with producers and directors  at the VPB but also to support the films in the festival’s selections that were shot in Emilia Romagna region through the help of her office. One of these films is “The Kidnapping of Arabella” by Carolina Cavalli ,which stands out for its compelling storytelling, impressive visuals, and the region’s strategic role in film production and development.

The film’s unique visuals and setting

“The Kidnapping of Arabella” is praised for its stunning cinematography and the portrayal of authentic settings. The film’s director and production team chose Emilia Romagna for its diverse landscapes and rich cultural backdrop. Locations in Ferrara, Ravenna, Rimini, Comacchio, Codigoro, and Ville di Comacchio contributed to creating a visually captivating narrative that transports viewers into the story accurately yet artistically. Some scenes intentionally blend in imaginative landscapes, making it challenging to recognise the actual locations on screen. This technique underscores Emilia Romagna’s versatility and its capacity to support both realistic and stylised storytelling. The regional landscapes serve as a vital asset, offering filmmakers a palette for creative expression.

Regional support and coproduction opportunities

The Emilia Romagna Film Commission plays a significant role in fostering international co-productions and attracting filmmakers worldwide. Recently, the region has secured agreements with entities like the Essen Film Area, aiming to boost coproduction projects with German and French partners. Such collaborations are part of Emilia Romagna’s broader strategy to reduce production costs and encourage international partnerships. New rules and incentives, such as lowering regional spending requirements for minority coproductions from 30% to 20%, make the region more attractive for filmmakers seeking cost-effective locations. These policies aim to facilitate coproductions that bring diverse stories to life while strengthening regional film infrastructure.

Upcoming projects and regional talent

The festival also highlighted several promising projects in development, including works by regional production companies like Tempesta Film. Notable titles include  the film about Giovanni Pascoli, directed by Giuseppe Piccioni, and new projects in the pipeline that benefit from the region’s supportive infrastructure. The region’s talent pool is equally vibrant. Young actors and established filmmakers are increasingly choosing Emilia Romagna as their filming destination, thanks to its availability of high-quality locations and regional funding programs. Casting sessions for upcoming productions have already begun, with promising talent emerging from local auditions.

This interview was recorded during the Venice Film Festival 2025, in partnership with the Italian Film Commissions Association and with the support of the Italian Trade Agency.