Luca Ferrario on Educa Immagine: Bridging Generational Gaps Through Language and Media

The sixth edition of Educa Immagine, a festival in Rovereto from April 11–13, 2025, explored intergenerational divides amplified by digitalization under the keyword 'Unboxing.' Director Luca Ferrario, also head of Trentino Film Commission, discussed how language creates identity and how youth slang excludes adults, reflecting a deeper gap due to individualized content consumption. The festival addressed body image, with experts noting that body positivity has been co-opted by brands imposing rigid standards via social media filters, leading to disorders like dysmorphism. Baby-influencers promoting skincare before puberty exemplify the adultification of children and infantilization of adolescents, as per psychologist Leopoldo Romanelli. Ferrario emphasized that internet conflicts stem from adults' failure to engage emotionally rather than ban or control. On relationships, he criticized media narratives that label femicides as 'crimes of passion,' minimizing violence. He argued that understanding algorithms is key to using social media without being manipulated, as anger generates more engagement than serenity. Free speech, he said, often becomes freedom to offend. Photographer Francesco Jodice noted that AI offers infinite computing power but narrows perspectives based on economic and political criteria, fostering post-truth. The festival included panels at Teatro Zandonai and MART museum, featuring artists who turn images into platforms for critical reflection.