Ferrania: The Italian Film — A Community's Legacy
Artribune's project 'Ferrania: la pellicola italiana' documents the rise and fall of the historic Italian film manufacturer Ferrania, located in Cairo Montenotte, Savona. Founded in the early 1900s as a gunpowder factory, it became a leader in photographic and cinematographic film, competing with Kodak and Agfa. Its color film technology attracted Hollywood and European directors. The company fostered a strong community with a company band, after-work parties, and cultural activities. In 1964, 3M Corporation acquired Ferrania for $55 million. The digital era led to its decline. Former employees like Adriana Mallarini and Stefano Siri recall a 'big family' and the loss of the town's soul. The Ferrania Film Museum, directed by Alessandro Bechis, preserves this heritage. The project features photographs by Simone Paccini and texts by Alessia Caliendo.
Key facts
- Ferrania was founded in the early 1900s in Cairo Montenotte, Savona, Italy.
- It started as a gunpowder factory before becoming a film manufacturer.
- Ferrania produced color films used in iconic movies like La Ciociara.
- The company was acquired by 3M Corporation in 1964 for $55 million.
- Former employee Adriana Mallarini worked there from age 18 until the 1990s.
- Stefano Siri said 'Ferrania was the heart of the town' and its closure caused loss of identity.
- The Ferrania Film Museum is directed by Alessandro Bechis, whose family worked there for three generations.
- The project includes contributions from Silvio Abucci and Guido Verrini.
Entities
Artists
- Gianni Berengo Gardin
- Mario De Biasi
- Ernesto Fantozzi
- Mario Giacomelli
- Uliano Lucas
- Pepi Merisio
- Fulvio Roiter
- Simone Paccini
- Alessia Caliendo
Institutions
- Artribune
- 3M Corporation
- Ferrania Film Museum
- IED Roma
- Central Saint Martins
- Comune di Cairo Montenotte
Locations
- Cairo Montenotte
- Savona
- Italy