GAZETTE DU BON TON

I had the pleasure of speaking to Emmy Award nominated Francesco Carrozzini, an Italian-born director and photographer in New York City and we delved into various topics.

The highlight of our talk is Francesco's new upcoming Netflix series"Supersex", which he co-directed with Matteo Rovere and Francesca Mazzoleni. The forthcoming Italian biographical drama inspired by the life of Rocco Siffredi, renowned Italian adult film actor and is scheduled for release on Netflix on March 6, 2024.

Francesco, who was raised in Milan by his renowned mother, Franca Sozzani, the former editor-in-chief of Italian Vogue, was no stranger to creativity. He started capturing moments and crafting short films with friends during his adolescence. In the summer of 1999, he made the move to Los Angeles to pursue a film education at the University of California, Los Angeles.

Giulia: Your love for films began early in your teens. Growing up in a creative environment, do you recall the specific motivations or inspirations that led you to venture into filmmaking?

Francesco: I spent my childhood immersed in movies; it was my primary pastime. There was something about being transported to different worlds from an early age. Perhaps it stemmed from my restless nature, always seeking new experiences. Eventually, I fell in love with the sense of adventure and developed a deep connection to the characters. I would often watch a movie repeatedly, hoping the storyline would evolve and offer unexpected surprises.

Giulia: You studied film at the University of California and then returned to Italy to study philosophy. Why philosophy? Were you seeking answers? Could you discuss the period of that transition and what motivated you to delve into the study of philosophy?

Francesco: I had been accepted to the International London Film School, but after 9/11, my mother became anxious about me studying abroad (given that London was targeted shortly after). Consequently, I made the decision to remain in Milan. I found that studying philosophy would provide me with a broad spectrum of topics to explore and eventually integrate into my filmmaking endeavors. That period marked a significant divergence in my life path, spanning approximately 15 years, before circling back to my passion for filmmaking.

Giulia: Let me first say that the film "Franca: Chaos and Creation," a documentary delving into the life and impact of the iconic Franca Sozzani, your late mother, was a wonderful tribute. What impressed me the most about the film was the fearless portrayal of the authentic Franca. One notable instance is when both of you were watching a video of yourself as a child, and her candid reaction expressing concern about the possibility of you turning out to be an unattractive baby. I could relate so much because my mother was similar. And while some may interpret it differently, others understand that love comes in different forms. Is that the message you wanted to convey, that it was her unique way of expressing love for you?

Francesco: There's a significant irony in that moment. I believe it speaks volumes about our moms rather than us. My mother loved me unconditionally.

Giulia: In the film you ask your mother what love is. What is love for Francesco? True love?

Francesco: True love is prioritizing someone else above yourself, and in many instances, this is something you can only do for your children.

Giulia: With that I want to take us to the upcoming Netflix series "Supersex" you directed together with Matteo Roveri. Writer Francesca Manieri said: “Supersex is the story of a man who takes seven episodes and 350 minutes to say ‘I love you''. Love comes back into focus. Share some insights about the film. As a director, what message were you aiming to convey to the audience while directing this film?

Francesco: The series primarily revolves around a family narrative. Despite all the challenges, Rocco emerges as a man who triumphs over his family struggles to establish a family of his own. However, love is multifaceted and I encourage the audience to delve deeper into its complexities beyond the obvious.

Giulia: What drew you to Rocco Siffredi, famous Italian pornographic actor? What aspect of his life did you find inspiring?

Francesco: Exploring what lies beneath the surface is incredibly intriguing, in my opinion.

Giulia: Is there a specific amusing or intriguing moment from the set of "Supersex" that you can share with us?

Francesco: Honestly, every day felt special. Alessandro Borghi, who portrays Rocco, is a close friend of mine, and working alongside him on set was incredibly rewarding. Knowing I'd spend time with a friend and collaborate creatively made the experience even more fulfilling.

Giulia: Did Rocco see the film? And if so, what was his opinion on the film?

Francesco: Rocco did watch the series. He sent me a very heartfelt message after viewing it.

Giulia: What has been the most interesting project for you Francesco, be it film, photography or music video and why?

Francesco: While there have been numerous special projects, nowadays, every film or series I work on allows me to immerse myself deeply in the material for an extended period. So each project inevitably becomes more meaningful to me.

Giulia: Are you working on any new films that you can share with us?

Francesco: Yes, I've been involved in a couple of films and another series, but unfortunately, I can't disclose any details at the moment.

Giulia: Well, we're excited to find out soon. You've collaborated with some of the biggest names in the industry. Is there one person on your wishlist whom you want to work with and why ?

Francesco: I've been fortunate to collaborate with incredibly talented individuals, but there's one actress whom I find truly exceptional and would be thrilled to work with someday: Vicky Krieps. (Vicky Krieps (born October 4, 1983) is a Luxembourgish actress. She has starred in a number of American, Luxembourgish, French and German productions. She appeared in films, such as Hanna, Two Lives, A Most Wanted Man, The Chambermaid Lynn, Colonia, and Old. Krieps had a leading role in the Academy Award-winning film Phantom Thread. She has starred in the films, Gutland, The Girl in the Spider’s Web and The Last Vermeer. She received a German Television Award for the series Das Boot.)

Giulia: What kind of memories do you recollect from the past that shaped who you are today?

Francesco: I believe that departing Italy at the age of 21 to move to America was the most significant decision I made, one that has profoundly shaped who I am today.

Giulia: What guidance would you offer to aspiring filmmakers and dreamers in today's world?

Francesco: As my mother used to say, dreams define us; they are the reason we wake up in the morning. Without them, we are nothing.