COLLEGNO FILM
FESTIVAL
Collegno Film Fest is an exciting new festival dedicated to celebrating both Italian and international cinema, with a special focus on films that explore the realm of fantastic and surrealism. Our mission is to provide a platform for visionary filmmakers who challenge the boundaries of storytelling and provoke thought. Join us as we celebrate the art of cinema and its power to transport audiences to extraordinary worlds.
2023 WINNERS
THE EXPERIENCE
After dinner, the group walks to the old palace where the festival screenings take place. The doors open for an exclusive screening reserved for the 15 selected directors and critics. During summer, the screenings are held outdoors, creating an even more magical atmosphere with room for a larger audience.Once the films have concluded, the spotlight turns to the directors for a brief talk, followed by an evening aperitif. For those wishing to extend the experience, an overnight stay in a nearby accommodation is available for free.
It begins with a warm welcome at Porta Nuova Station, followed by an exclusive guided tour of the renowned National Cinema Museum in Turin. From there, the group heads to Collegno's historic center, where a delightful dinner awaits in one of the city's most celebrated local restaurants. Here, filmmakers, critics, and organizers come together to share a meal and immerse in lively discussions about cinema.
The festival is held in a rustic palace located in the historic center of Collegno, famously known as "the city of the mad" due to its renowned open-air asylum. In the past, it was used to host artists from all over the world and has now been restored to welcome the competing filmmakers. Part of the building functions as a cinema hall, while another section hosts aperitifs and Cineforum events.
OUR GOAL
We want to connect filmmakers and authors, both Italian and international, whether students or industry professionals, who share a passion for cinema that explores the unusual, the fantastical, and beyond. A cinema that places originality at its core, because now, more than ever, in a future where AI may take over, it is the power of unique ideas that will define the cinema of tomorrow.
In addition, we aim to create a network that allows young authors to connect and foster future prolific collaborations. Our focus is also on showcasing Piedmontese cinema, to which we dedicate a special retrospective. Any filmmaker from Piedmont is more than welcome to submit their film, regardless of genre or length.
ABOUT US
The founder of the festival is Mario Schilirò, an eclectic artist, surrealist by nature, that has dedicated his life to art in all its forms. From his early days in theater to his experiments with reclaimed materials for creating installations and stop-motion films, his work has always pushed the boundaries of creativity. His passion led him to cinema, where he crafted films known for their grotesque and fantastical style.
In 2023, Schilirò decided to open the doors of his estate to host the Collegno Film Festival. In his honor, the festival established the "Mario Schilirò Award," which is given to the best surrealist and experimental film. His legacy continues to inspire a new generation of artists who dare to explore the unknown.
Mario Schilirò together with his actor Tommasino Fremiti in the role of San Gaudenzio of Novara.
Elena Scugnizzo and Ernesto Mela are the key figures behind the festival’s communication and logistical coordination, ensuring everything runs smoothly and aligns with Mario's original vision. Thanks to their dedication, we are able to welcome a specialized jury of critics who, in the days leading up to the screening, carefully select the films and determine the awards. Their efforts play a vital role in upholding the high standards and creative spirit of the festival.