Interwiev with Angela D’Arrigo, Director of Lombardia Film Commission

Angela D’Arrigo is the director of the Lombardia Film Commission. We met her at the Venice Film Festival, during the Venice Production Bridge, to discuss the activities and strategic initiatives of the Lombardia Film Commission. The interview highlights the region’s involvement in the industry, its participation in key events, and its future plans for supporting film production and development. The Lombardia Film Commission’s presence at the festival emphasizes its commitment to fostering international collaboration and showcasing Lombard talent within the European film landscape.

The Importance of the Lombardia Film Commission’s Presence at Venice

D’Arrigo explained that the Lombardia Film Commission’s participation in Venice is crucial to increasing regional visibility and establishing valuable connections. She shared that this is her first time attending as director, having taken on the role only six months ago.

The commission aims to showcase Lombardy’s potential as a filming destination and to increase awareness of its activities among international professionals. Being part of the Venice Production Bridge allows Lombardia to engage in numerous meetings and panels, fostering partnerships with other European and global film commissions.

D’Arrigo underlined that face-to-face meetings create stronger relationships and richer opportunities compared to virtual interactions, especially in the post-COVID era.

Lombardia’s Initiatives and Future Projects

D’Arrigo highlighted two panels organized by the Lombardia Film Commission at the Venice festival. The first, aimed at young people and students, introduces the Camera Action platform, designed to connect students with production companies for internships and practical training opportunities. This initiative seeks to strengthen networking between new talent and Lombard productions.

The second panel focuses on strategies and policies to support film production in Lombardia, including upcoming calls and funding programs. D’Arrigo mentioned that these initiatives are part of Lombardia’s broader effort to support the audiovisual sector through financial incentives and partnerships, with particular emphasis on post-production, animation, and documentary films. The region also plans to launch a voucher program for 2027 to encourage international market participation.

The Role of the Lombardia Film Commission in International Collaborations

D’Arrigo discussed the Lombardia Film Commission’s role in fostering international collaboration through participation in industry events and partnerships. She stressed that attending festivals like Venice provides Lombard filmmakers and producers with essential opportunities to showcase their work and build global relationships.

D’Arrigo emphasized that Lombardia’s presence at Venice, with its panels and networking events, demonstrates the region’s active engagement in the international film scene. She also pointed out the region’s historic appeal for filmmaking, referencing Milan and its association with iconic international productions. This visibility not only attracts new investment but also reinforces Lombardia’s reputation as a vibrant hub for cinematic excellence.

This interview was recorded during Venice Film Festival 2026, in partnership with the Italian Film Commissions Association and with the support of the Italian Trade Agency.