Cinema, Books, and New Perspectives: Our Summer with Nuovo Armenia

On Sunday, June 21, we experienced a truly special evening in the heart of Dergano. Surrounded by words, stories, and curious glances, we brought our books on Middle Eastern culture to the “Non così lontano” (Not So Far Away) film forum, organized by Nuovo Armenia. It was the perfect debut for a collaboration in which we believe deeply.

Indeed, we are convinced that the union between cinema and literature is a powerful generator of empathy, which represents the ideal ally for looking at the world with new eyes. Seeing so many people stop by to browse through our bilingual and Arabic language volumes, embracing the project with enthusiasm, filled our hearts with joy.

Nuovo Armenia: Where Culture Crosses Borders

Nuovo Armenia is a social promotion association that carries forward an inclusive and multidisciplinary cultural program, with the aim of expanding our gaze beyond geographical and mental borders. This association promotes contemporary cinematography from Africa, Asia, and Latin America, emphasizing community culture and a plural approach. Everything takes place in a public urban space that is undergoing a beautiful, grassroots redevelopment.

“Non così lontano”: Cinema as an Act of Resistance

The film forum “Non così lontano” is born precisely from this urgency: to shift our gaze, to question it, and to let ourselves be moved by narratives that speak of belonging, memory, and resistance. In a world that often simplifies or silences complexities, Nuovo Armenia takes us on a journey through communities fighting to affirm their right to exist, from Palestine to Lebanon, and from Iran to Sudan. This summer’s selection draws from the most important festivals in the world to give a voice to perspectives that are too often marginalized.

During the presentation of the film forum, we were deeply moved by the words of the Palestinian director and actor Mohammad Bakri, which we share below:

“I am convinced that when you know another language, when you know another culture, you fall in love with it. You break the wall between you and it, and it is the best way to make peace.”

The First Stage: The Little Sister

On Sunday, June 21, the screen lit up with The Little Sister, a film based on the autobiographical novel of the same name by Fatima Daas. The film follows the growth of Fatima, a seventeen-year-old living in the Parisian banlieue, with an almost documentary-like style. It is a universal story about self-acceptance, balanced between the need to belong to a community and the profound necessity to understand who one truly is.

Upcoming Events

The screening of The Little Sister was only the beginning. Our book stall will return to accompany the screenings of Nuovo Armenia for two more appointments in July. Mark the dates in your calendar:

• Sunday, July 12: we will meet for the screening of the film Once upon a time in Gaza.
• Thursday, July 30: we look forward to seeing you for the film The Voice of Hind Rajab.
  

Bring your curiosity, your desire to travel with your mind, and your passion for stories. We are waiting for you there, under the stars of Nuovo Armenia’s garden, with our books and many more stories to tell!