Interview with Alberto Battocchi, Film Commissioner at the Trentino Film Commission at Focus London 2025

At Focus London 2025, Fred Film Radio spoke with Alberto Battocchi, Film Commissioner at the Trentino Film Commission, about what a film commission really does today, why being present at Focus remains important, and how Trentino is balancing international ambition with local responsibility.

Attracting Productions While Growing the Local Industry

Battocchi described the role of a film commission as having two clear missions. On one side, he explained, is the work of attracting film and TV productions from outside the region, whether from elsewhere in Italy, across Europe or further afield. On the other is the responsibility to grow the local film industry, ensuring that professionals continue to develop their skills and that local producers are supported in taking their projects beyond regional borders.

What Makes Trentino Distinct

When talking about Trentino itself, Battocchi highlighted the region’s position in the very north of Italy, where Italian and continental European cultures meet. He explained that this gives filmmakers access to a wide variety of locations within a relatively small territory, from cities and castles to lakes, villas and public spaces. He also pointed out that many public locations can often be used free of charge, describing this as a practical advantage for productions. Being at Focus London, he added, allows him to meet producers and location managers face to face, exchange ideas with colleagues from other countries, and build relationships that simply aren’t possible remotely.

Proud Projects, Green Film, and Looking Forward

Battocchi spoke with particular pride about “Vermiglio” by Maura Delpero, shot entirely in Trentino and winner of the Silver Lion in Venice, describing it as a perfect collaboration between a sensitive director and the territory itself. He also mentioned a major Netflix series currently shooting in Trento, drawn to the city’s Christmas market and seasonal atmosphere. Beyond individual productions, he highlighted Green Film, the sustainability certification system Trentino launched in 2017, which has since been adopted by many other regions and has certified more than 300 projects. Looking ahead, Battocchi said his personal wish is to see more high-quality European co-productions choosing Trentino, believing strongly in the power of collaboration to allow one region’s culture and landscapes to reach audiences across Europe.