In the beautiful frame of Messina, a historical city nestled near the Straits of Messina, on 29 July ’23, an extraordinary event will take place, honouring the very best cinematography.
The “Messina Cinema Award”, an annual exclusive appointment conceived and directed by the esteemed Helga Corrao under the auspices of the cultural association “Messina Progetto Arte” by Pippo Scattareggia, celebrated its 5th edition with grandeur and emotion. Helga Corrao and Showman Gigi Miseferi will present the event. Claudio Bellezza will masterfully manage the direction.
– Gigi Miseferi & Helga Corrao –
– Pippo Scattareggia –
Since its inception in 2018, the “Messina Cinema Award” has become a prestigious platform for recognizing the outstanding contributions of Sicilian filmmakers, directors, actors, cinematographers, musicians, set designers, costume artists, makeup and hairstylists, editors, sound technicians, and visual effects experts.
This remarkable event not only emphasizes the value of local talent but also serves as a significant opportunity to showcase the diverse and vibrant world of cinema, celebrating the rich tapestry of artistry.
At the heart of the 5th edition was the poignant tribute to the unforgettable actress, director, writer, and screenwriter Monica Vitti, who spent her formative years in Messina during the 1930s. With warmth and affection, attendees remembered her journey from “Marisa Setti Vistini,” a moniker affectionately given to her in Sicilian dialect, to the esteemed international artist known as Monica Vitti. Her life and work have been a testament to the resilience, humour, and unique femininity that define the essence of the Sicilian spirit.
– Monica Vitti –
As the evening unfolded at the esteemed “Palazzo del Monte di Pietà”, it became apparent that the legacy of Monica Vitti’s cinematic contributions was deeply ingrained in the Sicilian landscape. Iconic films such as “La ragazza con la Pistola” (The Girl with a Pistol), “La Bellissima che uccide” (Modesty Blaise), “L’Avventura” (The Adventure), and “Ritorno a Lisca Bianca” (Return to Lisca Bianca) resonated with the attendees, reminding them of the cinematic magic that unfolded against the backdrop of Sicily’s enchanting locales.
Among the distinguished guests present were illustrious names from the world of cinema, theatre, and media, who were bestowed with career awards and special mentions for their remarkable contributions.
CAREER AWARDS
Adriana Pannitteri: A renowned RAI journalist and author, Adriana Pannitteri received the Career Award for her significant literary achievements, including books like “Raffaella Carrà, la ragazza perfetta” (Raffaella Carrà, the perfect girl) and “Cronaca di un delitto annunciato” (Chronicle of an Announced Crime), which have resonated with audiences. She has been working at TG1 since 1997, covering some of the most significant news stories as a reporter. Since 2001, she has been hosting the morning news programs. She is also the vice editor-in-chief at TV7 and Speciali TG1.
Michael Cavalieri: As a Sicilian-American actor and director, Michael Cavalieri was honoured with the Career Award for his versatile performances on both the silver screen and television, notably in works like “The Next Karate Kid,” “Ritornato,” and “La Porta dell’Inferno.”
Totò Cascio: Oscar Prize, an esteemed actor and television personality, Totò Cascio was awarded for his outstanding contributions to cinema, including his iconic role in Giuseppe Tornatore’s “Nuovo Cinema Paradiso,” where he portrayed the young Salvatore “Totò” Di Vita.
Massimiliano Buzzanca: An accomplished actor in cinema and theatre, Massimiliano Buzzanca received the Career Award. His performances have left an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences. Son of the legendary actor and filmmaker Lando Buzzanca’s contributions to the world of cinema was celebrated, inspiring generations of filmmakers and actors alike.
Walter Corda: A multi-talented personality, Walter Corda received the Career Award for his skills as an actor, voice artist, singer, and guitarist, which have earned him accolades and admiration.
Daniel Speck: A prolific writer and screenwriter, Daniel Speck was honoured with the Career Award for his storytelling prowess, bringing engaging narratives to the forefront of cinema.
Ninni Panzera: For his exemplary dedication as the former secretary general of TaoArte, Ninni Panzera was recognized with the Career Award for his contributions to the promotion of art and culture.
Manfredi Russo: A gifted director and actor, Manfredi Russo was acknowledged with the Career Award for his creative vision, paving the way for exceptional cinematic experiences.
Fabio La Rosa: An actor, director, and emotional theatre teacher at INPEF in Rome and artistic director of the Academy of Art and Image in Rome, Fabio La Rosa received the Career Award for his contributions to the theatrical arts.
Veronica Bartoli: An actress and showgirl known for her roles in films like “Fatalità” and “Vogliamo tutto Subito,” Veronica Bartoli was honoured with the Career Award for her versatile performances in both film and television.
Paola Barzi: An actress and dancer, Paola Barzi received the Career Award for her contributions to the world of theatre and cinema, with notable appearances in films like “Palombella Rossa” and “Il Ribelle Journey of Death.”
Federico Maio: An exceptional filmmaker, composer, and musician, Federico Maio received the Career Award for his outstanding contributions, adding an exquisite touch to the world of art through his compositions.
Carmelo Cambria: An actor, producer, and co-founder of “Ventitreesima Strada Film,” Mario Cambria was bestowed with the Career Award for his dedication and commitment to storytelling, enriching the cinematic landscape with engaging narratives.
HONOURING SICILIAN CULTURAL AMBASSADORS
Angelo Soraci: Prestigious singer, alias “Cabrio”, for celebrating 20 years of career.
Carmelo Guarnera: An actual “Campione Pizza World,” Carmelo Guarnara was honoured as a Sicilian Cultural Ambassador for his culinary journey spanning four decades, promoting Sicilian cuisine on the global stage.
SPECIAL MENTIONS
Ass. Danzando l’Ottocento: This association received a Special Mention for their contribution to the production of the Netflix series “Il Gattopardo,” showcasing the beauty of Sicilian culture and history through captivating dance performances.
Giovanna Giordano: A talented writer and journalist, Giovanna Giordano received a Special Mention for her work promoting Sicilian literature and culture.
Federico Vitella: As a professor at the University of Messina, Federico Vitella was recognized with a Special Mention for inspiring a new generation of cinema enthusiasts through his teachings in “Storia del cinema” (History of Cinema) and “Teorie del cinema” (Cinema Theories).
Anna Maria Deodato: A distinguished academic and author, Anna Maria Deodato received a Special Mention for her contributions to literature and education.
Salvatore Curtò: An esteemed author, Salvatore Curtò was acknowledged with a Special Mention for his literary achievements.
Giusy Scirè and Mary Bellomo (Miss Integration): Giusy Scirè and Mary Bellomo were honoured with a Special Mention for their outstanding contributions to promoting integration through their work.
Accademia del Cinema e per il SET 2023 ANCORA Cinematografica by Angelo Faraci: This institution received a Special Mention for its commendable efforts in nurturing talent and enriching the cinematic landscape through its academic pursuits.
A special thanks to Giovanna Lauretta, President of Mod’ Art Agency Fashion Management Rome and Art Director of the Fashion Brand Enzo Scarlatti (defined as the painter of fashion) for her precious and important support at “Messina Cinema Award”.
In memory of Elena La Fauci di Rosa; Writer, Painter, Teacher, Hagiographer, Scholar and Researcher of Art. A highly prominent figure of the “Culture of Messina”, she is included in the international encyclopedia “Painters of the 20th Century.”
In addition to the career awards and special mentions, the prestigious “Donare è Vita Association”, led by Anna Alessandro, presented awards for “Solidarietà nel sociale sul territorio” (Social Solidarity) to:
Prof. Salvatore Leonardi: Recognized for his role as the director of the Intensive Care Unit at the IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino Pulejo” hospital in Messina, Salvatore Leonardi’s dedicated work in the medical field has made a significant impact in the community.
Giuseppe Bevacqua: Acknowledged for his contributions as a journalist and director of “Voce di Sicilia,” Giuseppe Bevacqua was honoured for his commitment to responsible journalism and informative reporting.
The “Messina Cinema Award” is endorsed and supported by the Sicilian Regional Government, the Department of Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment, ARS Sicilian Regional Assembly, TaoArte, the University of Messina, DAMS, the University of Manouba in Tunisi, the “Vincenzo Consolo” Sicilian Chair for Dialogue between Cultures and Civilizations, the “Donare è Vita Association” and the Team Nibali.
As the event concluded, the enchanting celebration of Cinema Excellence left attendees inspired and eager to witness the continuous growth of talent in the region.
Also, for this edition, the renowned Artist Gregorio Cesareo will create the portrait of the esteemed Actress Monica Vitti.
The “Messina Cinema Award” will undoubtedly continue to shine a spotlight on the brilliance of Cinema, celebrating its impact on global storytelling for years to come.
Article edited by Massimo Basile
Editorial Director