We recently connected with Ilaria Malvezzi and have shared our conversation below.
Ilaria, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?
I am currently developing my passion project, dear to my heart: the psychological-erotic-thriller “Sins.” Inspired by the Italian novelist Giovanni Verga’s “La Lupa” (She-Wolf) from 1880.
“Sins” follows in the vein of Bernardo Bertolucci’s controversial and iconic film, “Last Tango in Paris.” It is a timeless tale of forbidden desire. that explores the depths of human emotions, including passion, love, rage, and the blurred line between pleasure and pain.
“Set in the 60’s in the countryside of New York, the seemingly tranquil life of a mother, Nina and her daughter Annabel, is disrupted when Annabel brings home her new boyfriend Marco, an handsome Italian young man from, whose presence throws their lives into irreparable upheaval”.
We produced a short film in 2019, directed by Jeremiah Kipp and featuring Dominick Sivilli as the Director of Photography. The film was produced by Rob Alicea and starred Marco LoChiatto, Casey Hartnett, and myself. Now, we are excited to embark on the development of its feature version, maintaining the masterful duo of Kipp and Sivilli at the helm.
“Sins” is a thought-provoking love story that encapsulates the essence of intimate connections and romance. It is a story with a soul, eliciting profoundly rooted emotions that breathe life into our characters. They emerge as vivid, vulnerable, and undeniably human, “Sins” is grounded in sentiment and evokes a sense of poetic nostalgia for true and raw human experiences. It captures that very essence of “poetic nostalgia,” which transcends the boundaries of an illicit and cruel affair, compelling us to root for a love that no longer exists. It beckons us to long for a time when emotions were raw, unfiltered, and palpable—a potent reminder of the depth and power that love once held.
DIRECTOR NOTE
“Sins” is a dangerous love story set in the backward era of the 1960s in a small provincial town. The contrast between overwhelming passion and social expectations creates an impetuous tension that guides our story. Ilaria Malvezzi’s screenplay loves the main characters equally, refusing to judge them, even when their primal desires lead them to agony. Originally shot in black and white to direct our gaze towards the past, Sins is not intimidated by unrestrained lust. Restless, uncompromising, with a love story that cannot be dissolved, Sins removes everything accommodating, safe, and easy in relationships.
The audience will wonder to what extent violence that destroys everything can be pushed and how this recklessness can ultimately be the force of love. ~ Jeremiah Kipp (Director) ~
You can view the short film “Sins” on WeShort
https://weshort.com/app/live/collection?s=sins
Ilaria, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
My name is Ilaria Malvezzi, an Italian independent filmmaker based in New York. I want to express my gratitude for the opportunity to feature my work with CanvasRebel. My journey hasn’t followed a linear path. In Italy I began as a contemporary-physical theater dancer and later transitioned into acting. I completed the two-year conservatory program at William Esper Studio. Following my graduation, I delved into writing and producing my own work, immersing myself in the craft of filmmaking.
What captivated me was witnessing the transformation of a simple idea, a detail, or a moment into a compelling story that comes alive on the screen. I didn’t attend film school; I’m more of a “learning by doing” kind of person. I rolled up my sleeves and dove headfirst into the practical aspects of filmmaking. It’s where I find joy and feel in my element. Making four short films has been an invaluable learning experience, allowing me to discover more about myself along the way and certainly sparking a hunger for even more ambitious projects.
Screenwriting holds a special place in my heart, just as acting does. Recently, I also made my directorial debut with my latest short film, “Halted,” Produced by Annie McGovern & Pipeline Entertainment. Director of Photography by Dominick Sivilli and Starring Josefina Scaro, Ben Becher and Lukien Lewkoicz. “Halted” is currently in post-production in the skilled hands of Editor Katie Dillon. I have found an unexpected and surprising new love in directing as well. I will actively seek out more directing opportunities, eagerly looking forward to expanding my skills and evolving as a filmmaker.
In 2023, I founded Movenze Films, my own production company, with a desire to bring captivating stories to life. Our company is built on collaboration with talented, diverse, and passionate artists, prioritizing teamwork, quality, and simplicity as the principal core values. Our primary goal is to tell authentic, unfiltered, and bold stories that resonate with global audiences. We are particularly drawn to exploring the essence of each story and delving into the depths of its characters, especially controversial – rebellious women who challenge societal norms.
I nurture a deep passion for the craft of filmmaking, and regardless of the difficulties, which are only there to shape and strengthen me as a creator, I still believe the film industry is a magical place to be. Filmmakers don’t just make films for selling; they create experiences, dreams, and, in the best cases, a lasting cultural impact.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
As an independent artist, navigating the crowded pavements already occupied by big names and successful companies is no easy task. The gatekeepers often hesitate to open doors for small entities like mine. That’s why it’s crucial for artists like me to think outside the box and carve our own unique paths, leveraging resourcefulness to find fulfillment on our terms.
The industry is often fixated on names, celebrities, and influencers, who naturally bring built-in audiences. I don’t fault them for it. However, I firmly believe in allowing the work itself, rather than the name associated with it, to do the talking. I have learned to trust my deep, innate instinct. That singular voice is the one I hold onto, even when confusion or discouragement arise.
Yet, it is precisely during these moments that resilience, passion, love for our craft and blind trust in my own visions come to the forefront and prevail.
In the ever-evolving and fast-paced film industry, new technologies constantly emerge, offering fresh opportunities for independent filmmakers. It’s like the Wild West, and I yearn to be a part of it—exploring, navigating, and, hopefully and humbly, conquering it.
In addition to pursuing the traditional route of financing “Sins”, I am also drawn to the idea of harnessing the power of innovative technologies. Creating an NFTs collection related to “Sins” and launching it presents an exciting opportunity. I firmly believe that blockchain technology and Web3 are the future of independent filmmaking, providing new avenues for expression and particularly offering greater opportunities for women in the industry.
Of course there have been courageous pioneers before me who successfully treaded this path, and I am determined to tackle the steep learning curve and following in their footsteps.
Today, being an artist is no longer solely a luxury; it requires the mindset of an entrepreneur. I’ve found myself delving into realms beyond my craft, in areas that don’t necessarily align with my natural inclinations, particularly when it comes to the business side of things. Yet, I see it as the necessary price to pay in order to pursue my passion.
I especially highly value collaboration with like-minded artists who share the same vision and goals as me. Together, we navigate the challenges of the industry, combining our unique strengths to overcome obstacles and create works of art we could be proud of.
“Change the plan but never the goal” is a quote that deeply resonates with me, as it reflects my belief that the career itself is a journey. While I strive to carve my own path, I acknowledge that the future is filled with unknowns. I embrace the unexpected surprises, impasses, and opportunities that life presents along the way. Remaining adaptable and seizing the moments are crucial skills for navigating the ever-changing landscape of the film industry.
“There Is No End, There Is No Beginning. There Is Only the Infinite Passion of Life” ~Federico Fellini~
We’d love to hear your thoughts on NFTs. (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice)
I believe NFTs are akin to the internet of the 90s and social media in the 21st century. They are rapidly approaching and poised to revolutionize the landscape. Decentralization, transparency, efficiency, and creativity are all associated with NFTs. Web3 offers a new ecosystem where creators can build their audience directly and organically, fostering meaningful relationships with their supporters while retaining ownership of their work.
While the learning curve may be steep and overwhelming at times, the potential and beauty within NFTs are immense. It’s a community-based system, encouraging collaboration and engagement. Having successfully run two traditional crowdfunding campaigns, I view embracing NFTs as the logical next step. Creating an NFT collection and collaborating with digital artists allows us to involve a global audience in the creation of “Sins” while providing unique utilities to enhance their experience. This, in itself, is an art form.
It’s a whole new universe that I only recently discovered, and I find myself captivated by its potential and groundbreaking possibilities. While some may consider it a bubble, only time will reveal its true impact and longevity.
If you wish to follow my journey as I navigate through the making of “Sins”, please find me on Social Media, in particular @movenzefilms & @sins.movie 
Contact Info:
- Website: www.movenzefilms.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/movenze/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ilaria.malvezzi.9
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilariamalvezzi/
- Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/movenzefilms
- IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5889828/?ref_=nv_sr_1
- Discord: Movenze#7184
- Clubhouse: @ilariamalvezzi
Image Credits
Professional Photos by Francesco Rossi Photographer “Sins” screen shots; Marco LoChiatto in the role of Marco On set of “Halted” Set Designer Almudena Caminero “Sins” poster graphic designer: Taylor August