The short film Sorelle Diverse, directed by Anna Marcello, has achieved significant acclaim following its national premiere at the Vertical Film Festival held at Cinecittà Studios on December 4, 2024. The film swept awards at the prestigious Coliseum International Film Festival, presented by Chiara Sani and featuring a distinguished jury that included Federico Moccia. The event, held on December 21, 2024, at the Seraphicum Auditorium in Rome, awarded Sorelle Diverse the prizes for Best Italian Short Film and Best Actress for Lea Mornar.
One of the film’s most remarkable features is its unique format—shot entirely in a vertical 9:16 aspect ratio. This innovative approach played a significant role in its recognition at the festival. Inspired by a true story, Sorelle Diverse is a bittersweet comedy co-written by Lea Mornar and Anna Marcello. The project received support from the City of Naples, the Municipality of Vico Equense, and the Proloco organization.
The cast includes Anna Marcello, Lea Mornar, Paolo Gasparini, Eduardo Bellotta, Rita Celentano, Vincenzo Cassano, and Stefano Chiavarini. With stunning cinematography by Massimo Zeri and an evocative score by Giancarlo Maurino, the film was produced by Claudio Bucci, Lea Mornar, and Anna Marcello for Pacific Innovation & Distribution, with additional participation from White Room Music Ltd.
“We are immensely proud of the entire team’s hard work,” remarked director Anna Marcello. “This was a challenging yet exhilarating production, and this recognition is deeply rewarding.”
Sorelle Diverse tells the story of two sisters born to a German mother and an Italian father from Naples who had emigrated to Germany. Due to family difficulties, the sisters are separated as teenagers and grow up in vastly different environments—Marcella (played by Anna Marcello) in Naples and Leah (Lea Mornar) in Munich.
A sudden event forces the sisters to reunite and live together in a small home in the picturesque village of Vico Equense, where their father was last seen but remains missing. Their differences and misunderstandings become opportunities to explore the deeper layers of daily life.
Set against the contrasting backdrops of Naples’ vibrant chaos, Munich’s serene calm, and the enchanting landscapes of Vico Equense, the film beautifully intertwines realism with a fairy-tale-like dimension. As the sisters confront their relationship and roots, the narrative evolves into a poignant exploration of identity, belonging, and familial bonds.
Massimo Zeri’s evocative cinematography and Giancarlo Maurino’s sensitive score amplify the film’s emotional depth. The visuals highlight moments of solitude and hope, while the music gracefully guides the audience through the narrative arc, reinforcing emotional resonance. “Sorelle Diverse” is not merely a tale of familial reconnection; it is a profound exploration of identity and belonging in a fragmented world. Through a narrative that balances laughter and introspection, the film invites viewers to embrace the beauty of authentic relationships and the challenges of life.
This project is brought to life with the generous support of several sponsors who recognized the importance of this narrative. A heartfelt thanks goes to: Pacific Innovation & Distribution, White Room Music Ltd, DGMedia, 64Biz, Walter Cavatoi, Oretta Corbelli, Daniele Hair Design, Alessandro Cardillo Piccolino, The City of Naples (Patronage by Gaetano Manfredi), The Municipality of Vico Equense (Patronage by Giuseppe Aiello), Vico Equense Proloco (Donato Aiello), Confail (President: Mimmo de Senna), Artistic Picenum (Giuseppe Cameli).
Anna Marcello expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who supported the project, celebrating the power and freedom of cinematic expression. Their support has been instrumental in bringing this touching story of family, cultural interconnections, and place to the screen.
As “Sorelle Diverse” takes center stage at the Coliseum International Film Festival in Rome, it promises to captivate and inspire audiences, encouraging a deeper understanding of life’s intricate threads that bind us all.
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