Italian Cinema Icon Fabio Testi on Industry Shifts and Cultural Preservation
Italian film legend Fabio Testi, currently a guest at the Ischia Global Fest, is calling for a stronger defense of national cinema against the dominance of American productions. Ahead of his 85th birthday on August 2, the actor—famous for his role in Vittorio De Sica’s Oscar-winning The Garden of the Finzi-Continis—argues that the market is currently “killed” by foreign competition, urging actors to use their influence to protect cultural traditions.
The Struggle for National Cinema Identity
According to Testi, the influx of American content into Italian cinemas and television is a result of politics rather than consumer demand. The actor pointed to France as a successful model for protectionism, noting that French policy protects 50% of national production. Testi’s own experience reflects these challenges; he recently made a beautiful film that premiered at the Berlin Film Festival but never saw a commercial release in Italy.
“We must save our culture, our traditions,” Testi told journalists at the festival. “We are actors and as such, we must use the weapon of words.” He emphasizes that the lack of support for local stories—particularly those from young directors—threatens to erode the unique character of filmmaking.
Did you know?
Fabio Testi began his career in the film industry as a stuntman and double before transitioning to lead roles that defined his international career, including his work in the cult western Once Upon a Time in the West.
Art as a Tool for Social Commentary
Testi has increasingly used his public platform to address global humanitarian crises, specifically the war in Gaza. He expressed frustration at the lack of media coverage regarding the scale of civilian casualties, noting that his attempts to raise awareness at the Venice Film Festival were largely ignored by the press. “Art must unite the Jew and the Palestinian, give them the opportunity to speak, because knowledge makes you love people, not hate them,” he stated.
His recent move into theater, where he recites the works of great poets, serves as a personal effort to reconnect with traditional values. Testi argues that contemporary society lacks the foundational ideals of family and homeland that shaped his own generation.
Reflections on a Storied Career
During the Ischia Global Fest, Testi also addressed his long-standing reputation as a “Don Juan” of Italian cinema. Linked to stars such as Anita Ekberg, Ursula Andress, and Charlotte Rampling, Testi framed his past relationships through a lens of artistic appreciation. “I have loved all my colleagues, but in the deepest and most artistic sense of the word, because women are more sensitive and deep,” he said. He acknowledged that these connections often evolved into physical relationships, which he views as a natural extension of his life experiences.
Honoring Industry Pioneers at Ischia
The festival is also dedicating significant programming to the memory of Clive Davis, the American music producer who died on June 22. Davis, known for discovering icons like Whitney Houston and Janis Joplin, was a long-time fixture at the event. Producers like Darina Pavlova, who maintained a close relationship with Davis, noted his significant impact on the industry. The festival continues to highlight both veteran contributors and emerging talent, with recent awards given to performers such as Julia Bevilaqua, recognized as the best Italian actress at this year’s ceremony.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is Fabio Testi currently appearing? Testi is a featured guest at this year’s Ischia Global Fest, where he is attending a special screening of the 1970 classic The Garden of the Finzi-Continis.
- What are Fabio Testi’s views on the Italian film market? He advocates for stronger state protection for national cinema, citing the French model of protecting 50% of national production.
- Has Fabio Testi worked in Bulgaria? Testi has expressed a fondness for Bulgaria and the Black Sea, having attended the “Love is Folly” film festival in Varna 13 years ago. He remains open to future film projects in the country.
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