The documentary “La Bella Polenta – History and Culture behind Nonna’s dish” will have its premiere at a special event on December 11th, at 17 pm, at the Legislative Assembly of Santa Catarina (ALESC), in Florianópolis. The production pays homage to the Italian cultural heritage, immortalized through polenta and Goethe wine, gastronomic icons of the southern region of the state.
Directed by the journalist Saul Pithan and with photograph of Robert Dias, the short film, produced by Performance Comunicação de Araranguá-SC, was made possible by 2023 Elisabete Anderle Cultural Stimulus Award, promoted by the Santa Catarina Culture Foundation and the Government of Santa Catarina.
A journey through history and flavor
More than a film about gastronomy, La Bella Polenta is a tribute to the traditions that shaped the cultural identity of cities such as Nova Veneza, Urussanga and Siderópolis. Each scene explores the magic of family rituals, from the sound of a wooden spoon scraping the iron pan to the grand community parties that celebrate the famous “polenta fall”.
Goethe wine, produced in Urussanga, also stands out in the narrative, being presented as a rare and unique symbol of local culture.
With poetic images and an engaging soundtrack, the documentary connects the audience to the roots of Italian colonization, highlighting how gastronomy plays an essential role in preserving Santa Catarina's intangible heritage.
Recognition at ALESC
The premiere at ALESC is the result of an initiative by the state deputy Tiago Zilli (MDB), who highlighted the importance of valuing the cultural riches of southern Santa Catarina. “We want the entire state to know this history and be enchanted by our cuisine, in addition to attracting visitors to a region so rich in culture and natural beauty,” said the parliamentarian.
Technical sheet and team
The production has an extremely committed team:
- General direction and script: Saul Pithan
- Cinematography: Robert Dias
- Assembly and editing: Endryo Carvalho
- Executive production: Carla Feyh
- Production direction: Fernanda Brandolt
- Assistance and audio: Rilari Santos
- Cameraman: david cardoso
- Narration: Karem Suyam
- Promotion campaign: Sabrina Lima and Jonatan Goncalves
Screening dates and locations
- Preview: December 11, at 17 pm, at the Legislative Assembly of Santa Catarina, in Florianópolis.
- Official premiere: December 18th, at 18pm, at Palazzo Delle Acque, in Nova Veneza.
Both events are free and have a general age rating, and are an unmissable opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich Italian history and culture that pulsates in the South of Santa Catarina.
Photo: Disclosure
