Welcome to the DMF! I'm Justin Younts, and today I have the pleasure of introducing you to Sara Alessandrini, an Italian filmmaker who has just released a captivating miniseries on Apple TV titled 'This is What New Yorkers Say.' This series offers a unique perspective on Andrew Cuomo through the eyes of everyday New Yorkers, and it's comprised of five thought-provoking episodes. Sara's journey as a filmmaker is as fascinating as the stories she tells. Growing up in Italy, she always felt a strong connection to the world of cinema, often finding solace in movies rather than social interactions. This passion led her to explore the intricacies of human behavior through film, ultimately shaping her career. In our conversation, we dive deep into her experiences, from her childhood in Cesena to her education at the prestigious Cinecittà in Rome. Sara shares her insights on the importance of storytelling, the challenges of filmmaking, and how her Italian roots influence her work. We also discuss the evolving landscape of cinema, including the impact of political correctness on storytelling and the significance of understanding history through film. Join us as we explore the intersection of culture, creativity, and the art of filmmaking. Whether you're a film enthusiast or simply curious about the world of cinema, this episode is sure to inspire and provoke thought. Don't miss out on this engaging discussion with Sara Alessandrini!

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:00:08 - Guest Introduction: Sara Alessandrini

00:00:26 - Sara's Nickname and Italian Background

00:01:19 - Sara's Childhood and Love for Movies

00:03:07 - Sara's Views on Movie Censorship

00:08:21 - Sara's Early Interest in Filmmaking

00:14:36 - Sara's Education and Experience in Rome

00:15:19 - Moving to Rome and the Impact on Writing

00:15:55 - Drama at Film School in Rome

00:17:17 - Challenges and Intrigues of Film School

00:18:05 - Continued Association with the Film School

00:18:56 - Unexpected Incident at the Film School

00:20:29 - Transition from Telecommunications to Filmmaking

00:20:38 - High School Education in Italy

00:24:35 - Practical Learning Experience in High School

00:26:00 - Comparing High School and College Learning

00:26:13 - Practical Skills Gained from High School

00:26:51 - The Importance of Problem Solving

00:27:42 - Practical Problem Solving in Filmmaking

00:30:22 - Problem Solving in Filmmaking: A Practical Example

00:31:11 - Understanding the Importance of Planning and Strategy

00:31:57 - The Value of a Practical Mindset and Technical Knowledge

00:32:08 - The Importance of Problem Solving in Filmmaking

00:32:22 - Collaborative Problem Solving in Filmmaking: Robert Zemeckis' Approach

00:32:55 - Closing Remarks

Check out Sara's website, where you can learn more about the documentary miniseries and find links to watch it! https://www.thisiswhatnewyorkerssay.com 

https://www.instagram.com/lasava.alessandrini/