The Italian Global Series Festival (IGSF) is set to honor the late American master David Lynch with a tribute called “The Light of David Lynch,” paying homage to the profound connection between Lynch and Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini. This tribute, organized by Carlo Chatrian and Dennis Lim, will feature a panel discussion with cinematographers Frederick Elmes and Peter Deming, exploring Lynch’s visual language and the impact of his iconic project, “Twin Peaks.”
Chatrian, Lim, and Spagnoli, who all grew up watching “Twin Peaks,” see Lynch’s work as groundbreaking in its nonlinear storytelling and embrace of ambiguity. They believe that Lynch’s work challenges narrative conventions and blurs boundaries between film and TV, reflecting contemporary themes like our relationship to virtual reality and our fractured perception of the world.
The festival’s programming also includes a showcase titled “Extraordinary – Women in Series,” which highlights titles that creatively and politically reframe women’s stories. Festival organizer Chiara Sbarigia emphasizes the cultural impact of series, stating that they actively shape culture and have the power to create real change.
Spagnoli describes the festival’s lineup as a “mosaic and harmonious journey” across themes like rewriting history, subverting archetypes, and reexamining power. He believes that series serve as cultural laboratories where gender representation evolves, pop productions surprise with radical depth, and auteur voices resonate widely.
The IGSF aims to celebrate untold stories, challenge traditional narratives, and showcase the cultural potential of television. By honoring David Lynch and exploring the themes present in his work, the festival hopes to inspire dialogue and reflection on the power of storytelling in shaping our understanding of the world.