The National Archives of Malta is hosting a three-day retrospective event to honor the life and work of Cecil Satariano, a pioneering Maltese filmmaker, critic, and author. Born in 1930, Satariano was a self-taught amateur filmmaker who gained international recognition for his award-winning films. His cinematic journey began in 1968 when he bought his first Super 8 camera, and by 1970, his first film “I’m Furious…Red” had already won a Ten Best award in the UK “Movie Maker” magazine competition.
The retrospective, titled “Cecil Satariano: A Cinematic Retrospective,” will feature screenings of Satariano’s five restored films, including “Giuseppi,” “The Beach,” “Ilona,” “Katarin,” and “I’m Furious…Red!”. These films showcase Satariano’s skill in storytelling and his ability to capture the essence of Maltese life and culture. The event will also include panel discussions with industry professionals, film historians, and Satariano’s family members, providing a unique insight into his life and work.
The restoration of Satariano’s films is a result of the “Cecil Satariano Film Restoration Project,” led by Veronica Galea, which aimed to digitize and preserve his works for future generations. This project has not only helped to safeguard Satariano’s cinematic legacy but also made his films accessible to a wider audience. The retrospective is part of the 2025 World Day for Audiovisual Heritage celebrations, highlighting the importance of preserving audiovisual heritage for future generations.