Maltese film Żejtune to hit local cinemas in coming weeks
Feature film has secured distribution in 14 countries
Following its international debut earlier this year, the Maltese feature film Żejtune, directed by Alex Camilleri, celebrated its Malta premiere on Wednesday evening at Eden Cinemas in St Julian’s, marking a key moment in the film’s journey towards its nationwide release.
The premiere brought together the film’s cast and crew, alongside local funders, industry professionals and guests, for a special screening of the film.
After premiering at the Göteborg Film Festival and drawing strong interest at the European film market during the Berlin International Film Festival, Żejtune has already secured distribution in 14 countries.
Set against the backdrop of contemporary Malta, Żejtune tells the story of Mar, played by Michela Farrugia, a young woman preparing to leave the island behind after inheriting three parcels of land following her estranged mother’s death.
As she begins the process of claiming and selling the property, she encounters Nenu, portrayed by legendary għana singer Nenu Borg in his screen debut at the age of 82.
Through his music and presence, Mar is drawn into the vibrant traditions and cultural roots of the island she is eager to escape.
The film features a strong Maltese cast, including singer-songwriter Michael Azzopardi in his screen debut as Anġlu, and veteran actress Frida Cauchi as Annette, Mar’s aunt.
The premiere was held in support of the NGO Din l-Art Ħelwa, whose work in safeguarding Malta’s heritage and environment closely resonates with the themes of the film.
Produced by Oliver Mallia (Pellikola), Ramin Bahrani (Noruz Films) and Alex Camilleri (Solari Productions), Żejtune is an international co-production with One Two Films and ZDF/Das kleine Fernsehspiel, in collaboration with Arte, Films Boutique and Nizza Films.
Following the Malta premiere, audiences will have additional opportunities to engage with the filmmakers through special Q&A screenings at Citadel Cinemas in Gozo on March 30 and at Embassy Cinemas in Valletta on April 6.
Żejtune will be released in cinemas across Malta and Gozo on April 8, screening at Eden Cinemas, Embassy Cinemas and Spazju Kreattiv in Malta, and at Citadel Cinemas in Gozo.
The film was produced with the support of the Malta Film Commission, Arts Council Malta, the Doha Film Institute, and the Ministry for Gozo and Planning.