The Italian Film Focus Festival (IFF) is proud to return for its landmark 25th edition, bringing a curated selection of the best contemporary Italian cinema to South African audiences.
This beloved festival is the result of a long-standing collaboration between the Italian General Consulate in Johannesburg, the Italian Consulate in Cape Town, the Italian Cultural Institute in Pretoria, the Associazione Controluce, and the Labia Theatre, continuing its mission to celebrate Italian creativity and cinematic excellence.
Marking this special anniversary, the festival expands its reach with screenings at The Bioscope Theatre in Johannesburg for the very first time. This exciting addition offers local audiences a vibrant showcase of recent Italian films that explore the country’s evolving social, cultural, and human landscapes.
Johannesburg Screenings at The Bioscope Theatre
Thursday, 28 November | 14:30
La città di pianura – directed by Stefano Di Polito
A poetic tale set in Northern Italy, where the lives of three young people intertwine against a backdrop of post-industrial change and quiet resilience.
A complimentary cocktail will follow the screening.
R80
Buy your tickets here: https://tickets.tixsa.co.za/event/italian-film-focus-28nov
Friday, 29 November | 14:00
La Grazia – directed by Paolo Sorrentino
A visually stunning story of faith, loss, and redemption, offering a masterful reflection on the power of beauty and the fragility of the human soul.
R80
Buy your tickets here: https://tickets.tixsa.co.za/event/italian-film-focus-29nov
Saturday, 30 November | 13:30
US Palmese – directed by Antonello Matarazzo
A vibrant and emotional portrait of a small-town football club and the community that rallies behind it—a microcosm of Italian passion, humour, and identity.
R80
Buy your tickets here: https://tickets.tixsa.co.za/event/italian-film-focus-30nov
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience the richness and depth of Italian contemporary cinema on the big screen. These are high-quality films that may never be shown again in South Africa.
Join us in celebrating 25 years of Italian cinema in South Africa—a journey of culture, creativity, and collaboration!