HÀ NỘI — The power of cellphone technology and how it can influence people’s relationships are explored in Perfect Strangers, a film by famous Italian director Paolo Genovese, 52.

It’s one of the films that will be presented during the first Italian Film Festival, kicking off today in Hà Nội to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Italy-Việt Nam diplomatic relations.

“Our friendship will enter a new exciting phase,” said Ambassador Cecilia Piccioni.

She said that after the successful events of the past few months focused on music, fashion, literature, education, history and art, the festival will offer Vietnamese audiences a glimpse of the renowned Italian film industry.

“Indeed, Italy has been greatly contributing to the development of contemporary cinema since 1896, thus becoming one of the leading superpowers in the field and having many actors, directors and skilled technicians awarded at many prestigious festivals all around the world.”

“Within the frameworks provided by the strategic partnership and the bilateral cultural agreements, our multifaceted co-operation with Việt Nam also encompasses the cinema sector,” she added.

Over the past few years, Italian Embassy has organised many relevant initiatives, meetings, round-tables and promotional events to bring more Italian movie culture to Việt Nam.

In 2016, Italy participated as a country guest of honour in the Hà Nội International Film Festival (HANIFF).

From now until September 23, three films Perfect Strangers, The Place and A Perfect Family will be screened at the CGV Vincom Bà Triệu and Kim Đồng cinemas. The films will be screened in Italian with English subtitles. Entrance is free.

The two comedies and one drama will draw attention to some of the most dramatic developments of Italian society, focusing on the key values of family and friendship as well as on major human relations’ dynamics seen through the lenses of personal expectations.

“They are not just excellent films by maestro Genovese, but also excellent films representing Italian contemporary cinema,” said General Director for Economic and Cultural Promotion of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Vincenzo De Luca.

In the framework of the event, Genovese will chair a round-table gathering some young Vietnamese film directors, sharing his knowledge and experience. — VNS