Giovanni Coda's Short Film 'Xavier' Honors Terror Attack Victim

Giovanni Coda, a Cagliari-based filmmaker and photographer, has released a short film titled 'Xavier' that tells the love story between Etienne Cardiles and his partner Xavier Jugelè, the sole victim of the April 20 terrorist attack on the Champs-Elysées. The eight-minute film, described as 'pure poetry,' focuses on the private relationship rather than the public event, using a voiceover of the letter Cardiles read at Jugelè's funeral, which was attended by top French government officials. Coda, known for tackling sensitive themes like homosexuality, gender violence, and bullying in works such as 'Il Rosa Nudo' and 'Bullied to Death,' was moved by Cardiles' words and felt compelled to create the project. Shot in Cagliari to emphasize that the story could happen anywhere, the film blends video art with documentary and fiction, marking a shift toward a more realistic approach while maintaining Coda's signature 'poevisione.' After its premiere in Florence and recognition at the New Renaissance Film Festival, 'Xavier' opened the Iris Prize in Cardiff and had its world premiere at Out On Film in Atlanta. Upcoming screenings include the Social Justice Film Festival in Seattle and Pride on Film Festival in Chicago. The film is set for release in Cagliari by year-end, ahead of Coda's next project, 'Mark’s Diary,' which explores disability and sexuality.