Ciné 2018 opens with focus on Italian cinema innovation and distribution challenges

The eighth edition of Ciné 2018 has launched in Italy, with General Manager Remigio Truocchio welcoming a growing number of exhibitors alongside presidents Francesco Rutelli (Anica), Andrea Occhipinti (Anica Distributors), Francesca Cima (Anica Producers), Mario Lorini (Anec), and Carlo Bernaschi (Anem). The event opened with a road trip project by Nicola Curtoni and Emilia Desantis, who traveled 5,000 km across Italy to visit 50 innovative cinemas, resulting in a book exploring how to engage younger audiences, use new technologies, and compete with multiplex chains. Notable among these is the Hart cinema in Naples, which features beds and sofas. Universal Pictures and Bim Distribuzione presented their upcoming slates. Universal will release Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again on September 6, 2018, ten years after the original, as well as Pope Francis – A Man of His Word by Wim Wenders (September 20) and BlacKkKlansman by Spike Lee (September 27). Bim Distribuzione offers a diverse lineup including Shoplifters by Kore-eda Hirokazu (Palma d'Or winner, September 2018), Troppa grazia by Gianni Zanasi (November 2018), Whitney by Kevin MacDonald (autumn 2018), and Book Club by Bill Holderman, which grossed over $66 million at the US box office, starring Diane Keaton and Jane Fonda. The article notes that while Italian production shows great energy, distribution remains conservative, with many quality films failing to find screen space.