Italian Thriller “Even” Gains International Recognition, Spotlighting a Growing Trend in Socially Conscious Cinema
The critically acclaimed Italian film “Even,” directed by Giulio Ancora, is set to premiere at the Los Angeles Italia Film Festival in March 2026. This recognition underscores a rising trend in cinema: films tackling difficult social issues with artistic depth and garnering both critical praise and audience engagement.
Inspired by True Events: The Roberta Lanzino Case
“Even” draws inspiration from the tragic story of Roberta Lanzino, a young woman murdered in the Cosentino region of Italy in the late 1980s. This connection to a real-life case adds a layer of gravity and authenticity to the film’s exploration of violence against women.
Awards and Accolades: A Sign of Changing Tastes
The film has already achieved significant success, being nominated for the David di Donatello award in 2026 and listed among the top ten debut films of 2025 by Cinemaitaliano.info. It has also secured five awards at various national and international festivals. This demonstrates a growing appetite for films that address complex societal problems.
The Narrative: A Psychological Thriller Exploring Trauma
“Even” centers on Giulia, a young woman whose life is irrevocably altered by a traumatic event. The film delves into the psychological impact of violence, linking her experience to a decades-old unsolved case. The narrative explores the idea that past traumas can resurface and impact the present.
A Stellar Cast and Collaborative Production
The film features a strong ensemble cast including Federica Pagliaroli, Marco Cocci, Simona Cavallari, and Paola Barale. It was produced by Lob&Partners with support from the Calabria Film Commission and distributed by Unicorn in collaboration with 102 Distribution.
Streaming Availability: Reaching a Wider Audience
Following its theatrical release, “Even” will be available on major streaming platforms, expanding its reach to a broader audience. This move reflects the increasing importance of streaming services in distributing independent and socially conscious films.
The Rise of Socially Conscious Thrillers
“Even” is part of a larger trend in filmmaking where thrillers are increasingly used to explore social issues. Films like “Parasite” (2019) and “Promising Young Woman” (2020) have demonstrated that audiences are receptive to narratives that combine suspense with social commentary. This trend is likely to continue as filmmakers seek to engage audiences on a deeper level.
The Power of True Crime Inspiration
The film’s inspiration from the Roberta Lanzino case highlights the growing influence of true crime in contemporary storytelling. Audiences are drawn to narratives based on real events, particularly those that shed light on injustices and unresolved mysteries. This trend is evident in the popularity of true crime podcasts, documentaries, and television series.
Future Trends in Italian Cinema
The success of “Even” suggests several potential future trends in Italian cinema:
- Increased Focus on Social Issues: More films are likely to tackle sensitive topics such as violence against women, social inequality, and political corruption.
- Regional Storytelling: Filmmakers will continue to draw inspiration from local stories and regional histories, as seen in “Even’s” connection to the Cosentino region.
- Collaboration and Funding: The partnership between Lob&Partners, the Calabria Film Commission, and distribution companies like Unicorn and 102 Distribution demonstrates the importance of collaboration and funding in supporting independent Italian cinema.
Did you know?
The Calabria Film Commission provides financial incentives and logistical support to filmmakers shooting in the Calabria region of Italy, fostering the growth of the local film industry.
FAQ
Q: What is “Even” about?
A: “Even” is a psychological thriller about a young woman who becomes connected to a decades-old unsolved murder case.
Q: Where was the film shot?
A: The film was shot in Calabria, Italy (Cosenza, Rende, and the Sila region).
Q: Will “Even” be available to stream?
A: Yes, the film will be released on major streaming platforms after its theatrical run.
Q: Who directed “Even”?
A: Giulio Ancora directed “Even”.
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