NewFilmmakers Los Angeles Expands Partnership with Apulia Film Commission

NewFilmmakers Los Angeles (NFMLA) has announced an expansion of its partnership with Italy’s Apulia Film Commission, focusing on the InFocus: Puglia initiative. This collaboration aims to showcase new short films from the Puglia region during NFMLA's April Monthly Film Festival, which highlights innovative works from emerging filmmakers. The newly formalized three-year partnership, spanning from 2026 to 2028, seeks to enhance artistic exchange and strengthen production ties between Southern Italy and Los Angeles.

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The partnership is designed to facilitate reciprocal industry missions, coordinated artistic collaborations, joint marketing efforts, and the sharing of best practices. According to NFMLA, what began as a weeklong cultural exchange in 2024 has evolved into a sustained initiative aimed at elevating Apulian filmmakers in the global marketplace while fostering creative connections between Italy and California.

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The InFocus: Puglia project is spearheaded by Los Angeles-based Italian journalist Silvia Bizio, alongside NFMLA executive director Larry Laboe and programming director Bojana Sandic, who oversee its artistic direction. Italian producer Simone Di Cori is also involved, with NFMLA's Lauren Muniz, George Gomez, and Daphne Trinh leading engagement and educational efforts. The Apulia Film Commission is represented by president Anna Maria Tosto and director Antonio Parente.

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The 2026 InFocus: Puglia lineup features a diverse array of short films, including “Il generale” directed by Nicolò Accettura, “Nonna Rivoltella” by Mario Bucci, “La Fémmina” by Simona De Simone (aka Nuanda Sheridan), “Lo so” by Alessandra Mangia, and two films by Roberta Martinelli, “Facciamo che siamo marito e moglie” and “Di notte.” These selections reflect the unique cinematic voices emerging from Puglia and the region's diverse landscapes, which have made it a sought-after location for international film productions.

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This partnership not only promotes the artistic talents of filmmakers from Puglia but also strengthens cultural ties between Italy and the United States. By providing a platform for Apulian filmmakers, NFMLA aims to enhance the visibility of their work in the global film industry, potentially leading to increased collaboration and investment in the region's film sector.

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NFMLA emphasized that the partnership is a significant step towards building a long-term bridge between the two regions, enhancing both artistic and production capabilities. The Apulia Film Commission expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting its potential to elevate the region's filmmakers on an international stage.

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“What began in 2024 as a weeklong cultural exchange has now evolved into a sustained, multi-year bridge designed to elevate Apulian filmmakers within the global marketplace while strengthening creative and production ties between Italy and California.” — NFMLA Statement

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“both the cinematic voices emerging from Puglia and the extraordinary diversity of landscapes that have made the region one of Europe’s most sought-after production destinations,” — NFMLA Statement

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