written by Megan Cuviello & Ashlyn Loper
This blog feature is an exclusive bonus installment to our Spring issue of Blending Magazine. After you finish reading, be sure to explore the rest of the magazine online—just follow this link to download the full Spring 2025 edition:
https://jschoolfua.com/images/BM/BM_151.pdf
Since the 1980s, Florence has been an epicenter for art and has cultivated a space for individuals to express themselves. With the rebellious spirit of the city, fostering spaces for punk, street and alternative artwork and design, it’s no secret that the city has allowed for the culture within the city walls to flourish. This includes one notable place in Florence, Cinema La Compagnia. Cinema La Compagnia is a cultural venue located in the heart of Florence. The cinema opened in 1921 and was originally called Cinema Modernissimo. Then, between the years 1984 and 1987, it was transformed into the Teatro della Compagnia and eventually came to be what it is today. Cinema La Compagnia is a place where many film festivals and cultural festivals are held, making it the epicenter to showcase the art and talent of different cultures within the city of Florence.
The Florence Korea Film Festival 2025 was held at Cinema La Compagnia in Spring, 2025. It was a ten-day affair to showcase the different types of South Korean films, such as historical films, documentaries, short films, and many more of the South Korean culture. It showcased many independent films and filmmakers and allowed time for audience interaction with the filmmakers. This film festival has been held in Florence over the past two decades, and people from all over Europe, the United States and all over the world come to see the culture displayed at the Cinema La Compagnia through the Florence Korea Film Festival.
Throughout the ten-day festival, we were able to attend multiple times to engage with individuals from all walks of life. On our first trip to the festival, we were introduced to the Florence Korean Film Festival Management Coordinator, Caterina Migliarini. We got to visit with Migliarini as she gave us an in-depth look into the festival while also introducing us to some of the history of Cinema La Compagnia. Migliarini stated, “People from all over come to the Cinema to see the Florence Korean Film Festival. People from Estonia, the Czech Republic and even India,” showing the cultural diversity that is welcomed into spaces of this nature. Migliarini also stated, “The beauty of the cinema is not just for the younger generation – it is for the elders and older generations.” This sparked conversation within our group as we reflected on the generations that had walked through Cinema La Compagnia at different times in history. Migliarini shared that it is one of her favorite places, if not her favorite place, in all of Florence, as she lives just down the street. Migliarini continued to share about how “the Cinema brings in Korean culture to other places” and the connections Cinema La Compagnia has with various universities, such as the European University Institute and also our very own FUA & AUF campus.
On our next trip to the Cinema La Compagnia and the Florence Korean Film Festival, we were able to attend a masterclass led by famous director Na Hong-jin. This South Korean film director was debuting his new film “The Wailing”. During this masterclass, we were able to learn more about his film detailing a Japanese man’s arrival in a small community. Through the masterclass, Hong-Jin’s passion for his work truly shone and allowed everyone in the room to grasp his concept. This also shed light on the true meaning of the independent film and allowed for a deeper understanding and appreciation that goes into all of the films shown in the festival.
Overall, the Florence Korea Film Festival at Cinema La Compagnia has opened its doors to a wide array of individuals and the artistry behind the independent films shown. While this film festival is just one effort in the continuance of the rich cultural heritage behind Cinema La Compagnia, it is also one of the many pieces to Florence’s cultural preservation and cross-cultural engagement. Everyone should take the opportunity to continue to support local and independent filmmakers, along with exploring the Florence Korea Film Festival for the 24th annual exhibition in 2026.