Gian Luca Farinelli has been appointed the new artistic director of the David di Donatello awards, Italy's premier film honors. The announcement was reported by Sentieri selvaggi on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.
Farinelli takes over the role with a background in film preservation and curation. According to RaiNews, he arrives at the David di Donatello from the Cineteca, Italy's national film archive, where he has built a reputation as a leading figure in film heritage.
In comments reported by Corriere della Sera, Farinelli said that Italian cinema deserves to be promoted and valued. His appointment signals a potential shift toward emphasizing the country's cinematic legacy as the awards move forward.
The news comes alongside another significant development for the awards. ANSA reports that Undersecretary of Culture Lucia Borgonzoni has offered congratulations to Farinelli and confirmed that Martin Scorsese will serve as honorary president of the David di Donatello. Borgonzoni wished Farinelli well in his new position.
Farinelli has already indicated that changes may be coming to the awards' structure. La Repubblica reports that he is considering new dates for the ceremony and a rethink of the gala evening format. He also expressed optimism about the future of cinema, citing director Christopher Nolan as an example of the medium's continued vitality.
The combination of Farinelli's archival expertise and Scorsese's honorary role suggests a renewed focus on film history and craft for the David di Donatello. The awards have long been a benchmark for Italian cinema, and this leadership change could reshape how the industry celebrates its achievements.
What to watch next: Farinelli's proposed changes to the ceremony dates and format, which could take effect as early as the next awards cycle.
