“Vittoria”: Naguib Mahfouz Award for Best Screenplay at the Cairo International Film Festival

I had the pleasure of interviewing Casey Kauffman, co-director of the captivating film “Vittoria.” This movie, which recently premiered at the Cairo International Film Festival, tells the story of Vittoria, a woman who, after her father’s death, embarks on a journey of international adoption that challenges her family, her marriage, and her own moral compass.   

What makes “Vittoria” truly unique is its groundbreaking approach to filmmaking. Kauffman and his directing partner, Alessandro Cassigoli, cast the real-life individuals involved in the story to play themselves, blurring the lines between documentary and fiction. This bold choice creates an incredibly authentic and emotionally resonant experience for the viewer.   

Key Takeaways from the Interview:

• The “Cinema di Reale” Movement: “Vittoria” is part of a new wave of Italian cinema that embraces realism and blurs the lines between fiction and documentary.
• The Power of Real People: Kauffman emphasized the importance of capturing genuine emotion by working with the real people involved in the story.   
• A Collaborative Process: Despite having a screenplay, the filmmakers allowed for flexibility and improvisation during rehearsals, shaping the story in collaboration with the “actors.”
• Shooting Chronologically: To enhance the authenticity, the film was shot in chronological order, allowing the participants to connect with the emotional arc of their own story.
• Artistic Advantages of Limitations: Kauffman explained how logistical constraints, such as shooting in three different time periods, actually led to creative benefits in the editing process.
• International Appeal: While distinctly Italian, the film’s themes of family, grief, and desire resonate universally, as evidenced by its warm reception at the Cairo International Film Festival in Egypt winning the Naguib Mahfouz Award for Best Screenplay

“Vittoria” is a must-see for those seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally engaging cinematic experience.