Charleston's annual Nuovo Cinema Italiano Film Festival returned for its 17th year in November 2023, bringing the latest and greatest contemporary Italian cinema to Charleston along with some of its most passionate Italian filmmakers. The 17th Annual Festival was held at the Queen Street Playhouse and hosted directors Sophie Chiarello, Elia Moutamid, and Giovanna Gagliardo; screenwriter Simone Brioni; and guest speakers from The College of Charleston.

In an exclusive interview with CisternYard Video, Dr. Giovanna De Luca (Founder and Artistic Director of the NCIFF) talks with director Sophie Chiarello about her film Il cerchio, a documentary that follows the students of a primary school class in a multi-ethnic neighborhood over the course of five years.

Produced by Max Meyers

With help from Claire Oliver, Caroline Drinnon, Cami Michels, JJ Highducheck, and Marinella Griffith

Edited by Max Meyers