Jane Campion is championing Matteo Garrone's 'Io Capitano,' Italy's Oscar-nominated contender for best international feature film. The movie follows the journey of two Senegalese teenagers, Seydou and Moussa, as they leave Dakar for Europe in search of a better life. The film has received critical acclaim, with Variety calling it Garrone's most robust work since 'Gomorrah.'
'Io Capitano' won best director and best emerging actor at the Venice Film Festival and best European film at San Sebastian. The movie is set for a U.S. release on Feb. 23 by Cohen Media Group.
In a conversation, Campion praised the lead actor Seydou for his sincere and compassionate performance. Garrone shared that Seydou, who comes from a family of actors, initially hesitated to audition but eventually delivered a pure and authentic portrayal.
Garrone revealed that he intentionally kept the actors unaware of the script to maintain authenticity. The film was shot chronologically to allow the actors to experience the characters' journey firsthand.
Garrone explained that the idea for 'Io Capitano' stemmed from a desire to offer a different perspective on immigration. He aimed to depict the migrants' point of view rather than the typical narrative seen in media.
The film's exploration of the universal theme of seeking a better life through migration resonates with audiences worldwide. Garrone emphasized the importance of showcasing the migrants' perspective, highlighting the shared experience of seeking a brighter future.
