

The INVOLVED! MovieLab, an initiative of The Home of The Human Safety Net, created in collaboration with various Venetian associations, takes this potential to a new level. This unique series of film screenings and discussions is curated by Professor Francesco Della Puppa, a sociology lecturer at Ca’ Foscari University, alongside students from the Polis-Social Hub at Ca’ Foscari. With its monthly focus on themes of social inclusion, social innovation, and social impact, the initiative provides a creative platform to examine the dynamics of contemporary society.
A Spotlight on the Series
This month’s screening features Vittorio Moroni’s “Le ferie di Licu” (“Licu’s Holidays”), a thought-provoking story of a Bengali boy who has lived in Rome for four years. Despite his integration into Western culture, Licu decides to honor the tradition of an arranged marriage—a practice deeply ingrained in his homeland’s culture. The film talks about cultural complexities faced by immigrants.
A Dialogue Through Cinema
The first screening in this cycle was the film “Per un figlio” (“For a Son”) by director Suranga Deshapriya Katugampala. Set in northern Italy, the film portrays the challenging relationship between a Sri Lankan immigrant mother and her son. Through their interaction, the narrative delves into the everyday struggles of immigrants as they navigate cultural differences and generational gaps.This piece captures the nuances of integration and social inclusion.
Following the screening, discussions with the director and Francesco Della Puppa offer audiences a chance to engage with the themes of the film.
A Collaborative Effort
At the heart of the Involved! cycle lies collaboration. Students from the Polis-Social Hub bring fresh insights to the discussions, while partnerships with city associations and cultural networks ensure diverse perspectives are represented. This initiative highlights the role of education and community in addressing pressing societal issues, providing a space for collective reflection and action.
Why This Matters
In a world increasingly marked by migration and cultural intersection, platforms like Involved! are essential. By using cinema to foster understanding and dialogue, this initiative not only highlights stories of migration and inclusion but also challenges audiences to rethink their own assumptions and biases.