A cinematic journey: Marco Tullio Giordana’s ‘The Life Apart’

A collaboration years in the making

When the acclaimed Italian director Marco Bellocchio reached out to his long-time friend and fellow filmmaker Marco Tullio Giordana, it marked the beginning of a project that had been brewing for years. The fruit of their collaboration, “The Life Apart”, is set to premiere out of competition at this year’s Locarno Film Festival. Giordana, who will also be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Pardo, brings a deeply personal touch to this adaptation of Mariapia Veladiano’s celebrated novel.

A tale of resilience and music

Set against the backdrop of Vicenza, Italy, from the 1980s to the 2000s, “The Life Apart” tells the poignant story of Rebecca, a young girl ostracized by her mother due to a prominent facial birthmark. The narrative follows Rebecca, portrayed by Sara Ciocca as a child and Beatrice Barison as a young woman, as she finds solace and expression through the piano. Her journey is supported by her aunt and mentor, Erminia, played by Sonia Bergamasco.

For those eager to dive into the world of “The Life Apart”, you can watch the trailer here.

Crafting a personal vision

Giordana’s involvement in the project was sparked by Bellocchio’s request to read the screenplay. “I just loved it,” Giordana recalls. “Then I read the novel and fell in love with it too, so I rewrote the script to make it my own.” Bellocchio, who not only penned the screenplay but also produced the film alongside Simone Gattoni through Kavac Film, brought his unique organizational prowess to the production.

Reflecting on his admiration for Bellocchio, Giordana shares, “When I dreamed of becoming a filmmaker, I had two idols: Marco Bellocchio and Bernardo Bertolucci. The admiration I had for Marco back then is the same today, even more so.”

Authenticity in casting and setting

Giordana’s commitment to authenticity is evident in his casting choices and filming locations. “I don’t like when there is a film about a musician and the camera cuts from their faces to their hands. I feel teased by the filmmaker,” he emphasizes. This dedication led to the casting of trained pianists for the main roles. Sonia Bergamasco, a seasoned actress and concert artist, and Beatrice Barison, a professional pianist making her acting debut, bring a genuine musicality to their performances.

The picturesque city of Vicenza serves as a stunning backdrop, enhancing the film’s emotional and visual appeal.

A tribute to Chantal Akerman

In a touching gesture, Giordana dedicates “The Life Apart” to the late Belgian director Chantal Akerman. “She would be my age if she was still alive today,” Giordana reflects. “She had her feature debut in 1975, soon before mine, and I immediately admired her a great deal.” Akerman’s influence and tragic passing left a profound impact on Giordana, making the dedication a heartfelt homage.

Returning to Locarno

For Giordana, returning to the Locarno Film Festival is a deeply emotional experience. His debut feature, “To Love the Damned”, won the Golden Leopard in 1980, marking a significant milestone in his career. “Winning the Golden Leopard was a very important christening to my career,” he reminisces. “The evening screenings in the Piazza Grande, with that massive screen and 7,000 watching your film… It’s like nowhere else in the world.”

The enduring inspiration

As Giordana continues to create films nearly five decades after his first Locarno visit, he finds inspiration in the world around him. “I just look around. I listen to people talking, I read newspapers, magazines, and books. I watch other people’s films and, when something strikes me, I feel the wish to give it shape in the form of a film.”

“The Life Apart” is not just a film; it is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, the resilience of the human spirit, and the transformative magic of music. For those who cherish cinema that touches the soul, this film promises to be an unforgettable experience.