The film festival opened its second edition with the international premiere of Alexandre de La Patellière and Matthieu Delaporte’s 'The Count of Monte Cristo'.
Malta’s Mediterrane Film Festival has welcomed the international film community and local cinema lovers to its second edition, which runs until 30 June in the capital city, Valletta. The festival kicked off with the international premiere of The Count of Monte Cristo—a film partly shot in Malta and featured in the festival’s Out of Competition selection. The premiere took place at St George’s Square, and was introduced by the festival’s Artistic Director, Teresa Cavina.
An Opening Night party followed at the Mdina Ditch Gardens, where Malta Film Commissioner Johann Grech addressed the delegates. He outlined the festival’s vision and ambitions under this year’s theme, “Unity Through Film,” and highlighted Malta’s history and commitment to building a world-class film industry.
Directed by Alexandre de La Patellière and Matthieu Delaporte, The Count of Monte Cristo is set in Marseille in 1815. It tells the story of Edmond Dantès, who is betrayed, imprisoned, and later escapes to exact revenge. Key locations across Malta, including Birgu Waterfront and Marsa Wharf, were used in the film’s production. Local talent involved in the film’s production, such as producers Pierre Ellul and Anika Psaila Savona, attended the screening.
Teresa Cavina, Artistic Director of Mediterrane Film Festival, said: “It is immensely special to open the festival with the international premiere of the critically acclaimed The Count of Monte Cristo – a completely fresh interpretation of Alexandre Dumas’ timeless epic from directors Alexandre de la Patellière and Matthieu Delaporte, which showcases the unparalleled beauty and history of Malta. Fresh from the film’s debut in Cannes, we were delighted to celebrate so many of the makers behind this project at our screening – creating a film on any scale takes a village and opening night truly embodied the theme of our festival: Unity Through Film.”
Johann Grech, Malta Film Commissioner, added: “The Mediterrane Film Festival shows the world just how much Malta has to offer and what a world-class film industry we are building together. This week there will be 45 films to enjoy, from 35 countries across five continents, kicking off tonight with a screening of The Count of Monte Cristo, shot here in Malta last year, employing around two hundred local crew and showing the positive impact film has on our island’s economy – inspiring young Maltese talent to see just what an exciting and sustainable career film can offer. Let us stand united – beyond all borders – in sharing stories of our shared humanity in the way that only film can. Let us stand truly united through film.”
The festival’s programme will feature 15 films in its Competition, seven in Out of Competition films, seven films in the environment-themed Mare Nostrum section, and 14 immersive projects selected by interactive story architect Michel Reilhac.
Additionally, a series of panels and masterclasses featuring industry experts from around the world will cover topics such as globalisation in the entertainment industry, film circulation and co-production among Mediterranean countries, emerging storytelling trends, immersive technologies, and the animation landscape. There will also be career-specific discussions hosted by acclaimed experts in their respective fields and crafts.