Isabella Rossellini, the Italian-American actress, model, and filmmaker, has been making waves at the 79th edition of the Locarno Film Festival, where she received the Swiss fest's Excellence Award. Her insights during a public conversation have sparked interesting discussions, particularly regarding her stance on the U.S. political climate and her career choices.
In a candid exchange, Rossellini addressed the question of whether she considers leaving the U.S. due to political reasons. She began by pointing out the broader scope of America as a continent, prompting the audience to question why they live in Europe if they dislike a specific country. This led her to focus on U.S. politics, expressing her concerns about the current political situation being "very bad and very hard." She revealed that she and her family are contemplating a return to their primary home, Mama Farm, a large organic farm on Long Island.
The actress also touched on the challenges and opportunities presented by the entertainment industry's evolution. She noted the impact of streaming and AI technologies, acknowledging that they bring both opportunities and crises. Rossellini highlighted the contrast between crowded film festivals and empty local movie cinemas, indicating a shift in the industry's landscape. Despite these changes, she remains optimistic, emphasizing that creating art has always been a challenging endeavor, and she celebrates the beauty of films made with iPhones.
When it comes to acting in series, Rossellini expressed her preference for shorter commitments. She mentioned her dislike for TV shows due to their lengthy production periods, stating that she prefers being a guest star to avoid extended periods away from home. This preference has influenced her decision to stop doing theater.
The conversation also delved into Rossellini's family legacy in the film industry. She shared her emotions about being honored alongside her famous father, Paolo, and brother, Renzo, at the Locarno Film Festival. The event held a special significance for her, as she felt a deep connection to her family's achievements.
Moderating the conversation was Olivier Père, the former artistic director of the Locarno festival and now executive director of ARTE France Cinéma. His role in the international competition jury further underscores the festival's commitment to recognizing exceptional talent.
