Soccer Drama 'Forza' Featuring Alessandro Costacurta Heads to Tokyo

'Forza' Set for International Sales at TIFFCOM

The soccer drama 'Forza,' directed by Marco Balsamo and featuring AC Milan great Alessandro Costacurta, is poised to make its international sales debut at the Tokyo International Film Festival's TIFFCOM market from October 28 to 30. The film has been picked up for international sales by EST N8, which aims to capitalize on the growing interest in sports-themed narratives.

Storyline and Themes

'Forza' tells the story of Bima, an 11-year-old boy from Bali who dreams of becoming a professional footballer to improve his family's life. His journey takes a pivotal turn when he forms a bond with a former AC Milan player during the latter's career. This narrative not only explores personal ambition but also highlights themes of family and hope, making it relatable to a global audience.

Production and Cast

The film was shot in Bali and Milan, showcasing the cultural exchange between Indonesia and Italy through the lens of football. Balsamo, who also wrote the script, stars alongside newcomer Ghazi Alhabsyi, Tara Sibel Demren, and Costacurta, among others. The film's production involved Riva Studios, co-founded by Balsamo and Demren, and is set to be released theatrically in Indonesia by Adhya Pictures in 2027.

Upcoming Screenings

Before its appearance at TIFFCOM, 'Forza' will have its first public screening on October 25 at Jakarta Film Week. The interest in the film is evident, with both rounds of online tickets for the Jakarta screening selling out within five minutes, indicating strong local support.

EST N8's Vision

Sophie Shi, head of studios at EST N8, emphasized the film's universal appeal, stating that it bridges cultures through the world's most popular sport. She noted that 'Forza' is designed to resonate with audiences globally, transcending language and cultural barriers. This aligns with EST N8's mission to promote bold Asian stories on the international stage.

The Journey of 'Forza'

Balsamo expressed that 'Forza' represents a labor of love, reflecting the dedication and collaboration involved in independent filmmaking. He highlighted the significance of the Jakarta Film Week screening, marking a long-awaited milestone for the project. Demren added that the film aims to inspire families to engage in discussions about dreams and belief, particularly when aspirations seem distant.

Other Titles at TIFFCOM

In addition to 'Forza,' EST N8 will present several other titles at TIFFCOM, including 'Tame,' a Thai horror film, and 'Jaguar,' a crime thriller set in Manila. This diverse lineup underscores EST N8's commitment to showcasing a wide range of stories from across Asia.

Conclusion

'Forza' stands as a testament to the growing interest in sports narratives within the film industry, particularly as it prepares to debut at a major international market. With its compelling story and strong cultural ties, the film is positioned to attract attention from buyers and audiences alike.