Introduction to the Locarno Film Festival
The Locarno Film Festival has confirmed that Giona A. Nazzaro will continue as the artistic director for another three years. Nazzaro took over the role in early 2021 and has supervised four editions of the festival so far. He will stay in the post until the 80th Anniversary edition in 2027.
Confirmation and Reaction
The news was confirmed under the chairmanship of the festival’s general assembly, led by President Maja Hoffman. Nazzaro expressed his gratitude, stating, "I would like to thank President Maja Hoffmann and the entire Board of Directors of the Locarno Film Festival for the trust and appreciation they have in me and in the team I have the privilege to lead."
Financial Updates
The General Assembly also confirmed the festival’s finances for 2024 and approved a budget for 2025. The 2024 edition of the festival saw an increase in audience by 3.5% to 152,000, as well as increased financing from private partners. There was also a 20% increase in the sale of daily passports and a 15% increase in accreditation purchases.
Budget Forecasts
The budget forecasts for the 2025 festival predict an income of CHF 17.1 million (USD 20.8 million, £15.7 million), down from CHF 18.2 million (USD 22.2 million, £16.8 million) in 2024. At the end of 2024, the festival had a deficit of CHF 93,300 (USD 114,000, £86,000) against a current reserve of CHF 691,000 (USD 842,000, £637,000). This represents an improvement compared to the deficit of CHF 485,000 (USD 591,000, £447,000) recorded at the end of 2023.
Future Outlook
President Maja Hoffman stated, "The efforts of all board members and teams in the past year enabled us to implement changes and achieve our goals, ensuring a stronger and more robust financial future for the festival." The 78th Locarno Film Festival is scheduled to take place from August 6th to 16th.
