September 2, 2022

Pier Glionna: “Fight for your ideas”

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Pier Glionna was born in Spinazzola, Puglia. Of Apulian origin, he moved to Rome after high school to study at the Rome Film Academy in Cinecittà Studios where he graduated with numerous international awards and recognitions. In 2010, he founded a theatre company where in addition to being its artistic director, he writes and directs theatrical performances. In 2020, he founded “IMMAGINARIA PRODUZIONI” an independent production company.

What are the most challenging aspects of being a filmmaker?

The only difficult aspects of being a director are having to fight on a budget and often with ideas that are too difficult or expensive to implement.

What is your source of inspiration for this short film?

For HOPPÌPOLLA, I was inspired by the cinema of my favorite director, Xavier Dolan.

HOPPÌPOLLA | Poster
Pier Glionna

What is the theme of this film?

Hoppipolla.

How do you decide on possible ways to promote your film when you are on a tight budget?

Through an important discussion with distributors. It is important to study the right strategy for distributing the short film.

How important do you think distribution is in today's marketplace?

Distributing a short film is very important today. I think that the path of the festivals can be a right showcase for young artists who need to confront, make themselves known and look around.

For those considering self-distribution, what is your advice?

It is OK. But I always prefer to rely on distribution professionals. It is often thought that the important thing is to distribute a short film at any festival: I disagree because I think it is necessary to carefully study the path of the short film.

How significant do you think short films are for someone venturing into directing films?

Very, very much. Shooting a short film allows you to gain experience and discover in a smaller way what it means to make cinema. You have the opportunity to discover your style and what is most hidden in your soul.

What was the worst challenge of your career so far? How did you take it over?

The biggest challenge of my career so far has been finding producers who believe in me and my art. Unfortunately, not having found a right production yet, I opened my own independent production house and self-produced through crowdfunding.

What are the factors to making a good film?

The idea is a good team. Without these two elements, a film cannot be made. You must have the need to tell something and you must surround yourself with artists who have passion like you.

Is there anything you would change if you could go back to the beginning?

No, but I would tell the Pier from the past to risk more. Not to be afraid and never throw myself down in difficulties.
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