The film industry is abuzz with the news of Pluto Film's acquisition of international sales rights to 'I Matter', a compelling drama directed by Alina Șerban, marking her directorial debut. This film is set to make waves at the prestigious Venice International Film Festival, where it will screen in the Spotlight section. What makes this even more significant is that it's the first feature film by a Roma woman filmmaker to be selected for an A-list festival, according to the filmmakers. This achievement is a testament to Șerban's talent and her commitment to representing the Roma community through her work in theatre and film over the past 15 years.
In 'I Matter', Șerban delves into her own experiences to explore themes of identity, belonging, and the challenges faced by minorities. The story centers around Rebeca, a young Roma girl who finds herself at a crossroads as she prepares to leave the orphanage she has called home. Her hope for a stable family life is intertwined with her father's release from prison and her acceptance into university to study acting. However, as she begins to forge her path, her past catches up with her, forcing her to make difficult choices.
The film's production credits are a testament to its collaborative nature, involving several production companies and organizations. Microfilm, 2PilotsFilmproduction, Frakas Productions, and ZDF Das kleine Fernsehspiel, in association with ARTE, Lemming Film Belgium, Avanpost Media, Orange & Be tv, Proximus, Shelter Prod, and Romanian Television, have come together to bring this powerful narrative to life. The film is also supported by various funding bodies, including the Romanian Film Center, the Government of Romania, Creative Europe – Media Programme of the European Union, and several Belgian and German tax shelters.
Alina Șerban's journey to this point is an inspiring one. She is a graduate of NYU Tisch School of the Arts and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), and has previously starred in films like 'Alone at My Wedding', which was selected for the ACID lineup at the Cannes Film Festival. Her talent and dedication have earned her the title of Knight of the Order of Cultural Merit in Romania.
The film's main producer, Ada Solomon of Microfilm, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration with Pluto Film, highlighting their clear vision and human-centric approach. She believes that 'I Matter' is a milestone in her career as a producer, bringing a unique voice to the international scene. Daniela Cölle, Managing Director at Pluto Film, shared a similar sentiment, praising the film's emotional depth and its ability to resonate with audiences worldwide. She described the film as a 'warmly human narrative' that invites viewers to understand the complexities of overcoming adversity.
'I Matter' is not just a story of empowerment for young people facing systemic disadvantage; it's a powerful exploration of resilience, identity, and the transformative power of art. With Pluto Film's involvement, the film is poised to reach a wide audience and spark important conversations about these universal themes. As the film prepares for its world premiere at the Venice International Film Festival, audiences can anticipate a deeply personal and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
