Alina Șerban Breaks New Ground at Venice Film Festival with 'I Matter'

Alina Șerban, a pioneering Roma filmmaker, made her mark at the Venice Film Festival this week with the world premiere of her feature debut, "I Matter." This historic film is recognized as the first feature by a female Roma director to be showcased at a prestigious film festival, marking a significant milestone not just for Șerban but for the Roma community as well.

Drawing inspiration from her own challenging upbringing, "I Matter" follows the journey of a young Roma woman aspiring to be an actress who faces the daunting threat of eviction from her orphanage. The film, which expands on a short of the same name, aims to redefine narratives surrounding marginalized groups and showcases the resilience of its characters. "I’m nervous about the pressure of being ‘the first’ — all the firsts," Șerban expressed in an interview. "But I also have this immense relief, and the feeling of being grateful that I managed to pull through something almost impossible."

In her remarkable career, Șerban has fought against the odds, rising from poverty in Bucharest to become a celebrated stage actress and director. After overcoming significant obstacles, she became the first in her family to graduate high school, later earning degrees from prestigious institutions like NYU and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. Her previous work includes impactful plays that challenge stereotypes and celebrate Roma identity, focusing on humanity rather than victimhood.

Source: variety.com