Paolo Bertolin Spearheads a New Chapter for the NZIFF

This winter season, the New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF), a cornerstone event for cinema enthusiasts, welcomes the esteemed Paolo Bertolin as its Artistic Director for 2024. Renowned for his contributions to the international film festival landscape, Bertolin's appointment signals an exciting era of growth and opportunity for actors and industry professionals across New Zealand.

The festival is set to unfold in four key cities, utilizing eight venues to showcase a rich tapestry of cinematic works. Wellington's iconic venues, The Embassy, the Roxy, and Light House Cuba, will host the festival from July 31 to August 11, with additional screenings scheduled in Auckland, Dunedin, and Christchurch. This expansive reach offers actors and filmmakers a unique platform to present their talents to a wide and engaged audience.

Catherine Fitzgerald, Chair of the New Zealand Film Festival Trust, highlights Bertolin's unparalleled expertise and his special affinity for New Zealand's cinematic landscape. With a history of associations with major film festivals such as the Venice Film Festival and Cannes’ Directors’ Fortnight, Bertolin brings a global perspective enriched by his experiences with Aotearoa's films and filmmakers.

Bertolin's vision for the NZIFF is one of collaboration and celebration, aiming to connect New Zealand's acting talent with the broader cinematic world. His acknowledgment of significant New Zealand films, such as "Heavenly Creatures" by Peter Jackson and "Once Were Warriors," underscores the festival's commitment to honoring the nation's film heritage while embracing contemporary achievements.

The festival's strategic direction, encapsulated in its 10-year plan Te Ahua o te Whānau Mārama, addresses the challenges and opportunities presented by the current global context. Bertolin's role is pivotal in steering the NZIFF towards a sustainable and vibrant future, ensuring it remains a vital platform for actors, agents, and filmmakers to showcase their work and engage with audiences.

For actors' agents, the NZIFF under Bertolin's artistic direction offers a golden opportunity to promote their clients' talents on an esteemed and international stage. The festival's commitment to presenting a world-class selection of films provides a backdrop against which actors can shine, fostering connections and opportunities within the dynamic landscape of New Zealand's film industry.

As the NZIFF prepares to welcome audiences into the warm embrace of its cinemas, the anticipation for a festival enriched by Paolo Bertolin's leadership and vision is palpable. This event promises not only to be a celebration of global and local cinema but also a pivotal moment for actors and industry professionals looking to make their mark in the film world.