Scripted

Italian movie L’anima in pace, directed by Ciro Formisano, secures the Jury Prize at the Hokkaido Film Festival in Japan. The film stood out as the only European title selected among more than 1,500 submissions, marking a significant milestone for both the production and the broader Italian indie sector.
Starring Livia Antonelli and Donatella Finocchiaro, the feature is currently available in Italy on Prime Video, further extending its accessibility following a successful festival run.

After premiering at the Ortigia Film Festival and receiving a limited theatrical release in Italy in January 2024, L’anima in pace embarked on an extensive international journey. The film has since travelled across multiple territories, including Brazil, India, and several European markets, where it has garnered critical attention and audience appreciation—an uncommon trajectory for a low-budget Italian independent production.

At its core, L’anima in pace tells the story of Dora, a young delivery rider navigating economic hardship and family struggles. To sustain herself, she supplements her income through illicit activities, creating a layered portrait of survival, marginality, and moral ambiguity in contemporary urban life. The narrative’s grounded realism and emotional immediacy have proven to be key factors in its cross-cultural appeal.

Commenting on the recognition, director Ciro Formisano highlighted the significance of the achievement: reaching Japan for the first time already represented a major personal milestone, while the award itself confirms the film’s ability to connect with international audiences. He described the project as “a small film with a strong narrative impact,” emphasizing its simplicity as a core strength rather than a limitation.