Director Francesco Costabile’s film “Familia” is Italy’s official submission for the 2026 Best International Feature Oscar. The movie premiered at the Venice Film Festival last year. It won the Best Actor prize for its young star, Francesco Gheghi.
The film is a family drama with strong genre elements. It is based on the true story of author Luigi Celeste’s violent upbringing. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Costabile uses horror aesthetics to explore universal themes of domestic abuse and toxic masculinity.
Director Uses Horror to Reflect a Terrifying Reality
Costabile states that reality today is often more horrific than fiction. He deliberately uses visual language from horror and thriller films. This choice aims to heighten the audience’s emotional reaction to the story.
The film examines how domestic violence poisons masculine identity. It moves beyond the context of organized crime seen in Costabile’s first film. The social setting is more common, making the story recognizable to a wider audience.
The director drew inspiration from Martin Scorsese’s early work. Films like “Mean Streets” and “Raging Bull” influenced his approach. He sought to mix genres to create suspense and emotional discomfort.
Casting Blends Professional Talent with Raw Street Finds
Finding the right faces was crucial for Costabile. Lead actor Francesco Gheghi, just 22, was praised for his mix of adolescent rage and fragility. The director compared his presence to a young Marcello Mastroianni.
For authenticity, the film’s neo-fascist group members were cast from the streets. Costabile specifically looked in boxing gyms. This blend of professional and non-professional actors adds a layer of gritty realism to the film.
The submission for the Oscar left Costabile speechless. He views the U.S. showcase as a dream and an important test. He is keen to see how American audiences react to the film’s potent social and political themes.
The Oscar submission for “Familia” highlights a bold cinematic voice. Costabile’s film forces a confrontation with uncomfortable truths. This Italian entry uses stark horror to dissect the real terror of family violence.
Thought you’d like to know
What is the movie “Familia” about?
“Familia” is based on Luigi Celeste’s memoir. It follows his youth as a far-right militant. The story focuses on the legacy of his violent, criminal father.
Who stars in the film?
Francesco Gheghi plays the lead role of Luigi. He won Best Actor at Venice for the performance. Francesco Di Leva and Barbara Ronchi co-star as the parents.
Why does the director use horror movie style?
Francesco Costabile believes real-life violence is horrific. He uses genre aesthetics to amplify the audience’s emotional response. The goal is to show that the true horror exists in reality itself.
What award did “Familia” already win?
The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival. It won the Horizons prize for Best Actor. The award went to young star Francesco Gheghi.
Who is handling international sales?
The Italian distributor for the film is Medusa Film. International sales are being managed by True Colours. The film was produced by Tramp Limited in Rome.
What is the director’s next project?
Costabile mentions a new project that continues his themes. It would act as a closure to a trilogy on violence. No specific details have been released yet.
জুমবাংলা নিউজ সবার আগে পেতে Follow করুন জুমবাংলা গুগল নিউজ, জুমবাংলা টুইটার , জুমবাংলা ফেসবুক, জুমবাংলা টেলিগ্রাম এবং সাবস্ক্রাইব করুন জুমবাংলা ইউটিউব চ্যানেলে।
