Hollywood Icons Unite to Save Rome's Cultural Heritage
A coalition of discerning voices from the world of cinema, including stars like Isabella Rossellini and Léa Seydoux, along with esteemed directors such as Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, and Jane Campion, are rallying against the threatened transformation of Rome's historic movie theaters into commercial establishments such as malls. This appeal, co-signed by an impressive lineup of artists including Willem Dafoe, Mark Ruffalo, and Damien Chazelle, seeks to address the urgent need to preserve the cultural essence of the Eternal City.
Concerns surrounding this issue have been echoed by architect and Life Senator Renzo Piano, who described the ongoing situation in Rome as deeply alarming. Scorsese's appeal, which encourages international support, emphasizes the vital importance of safeguarding cultural spaces, which are integral not only to Rome’s legacy but also to the broader artistic landscape worldwide.
The letter conveys a powerful message against such reconversion, stressing that transforming cultural venues into hotels and supermarkets would constitute an irreparable offense against the city’s rich heritage. It urges leaders, including President Sergio Mattarella and Premier Giorgia Meloni, to recognize the significance of these spaces, which hold the potential for renewal and creativity in contemporary society.
Scorsese steadfastly maintains that preserving these theaters is critical, stating, "It is our duty to transform these abandoned cathedrals in the desert into true temples of culture." This passionate call for action highlights the Piccolo America movie theater, underscoring the immediate threat facing it and other venues.
The appeal ultimately emphasizes a shared responsibility: to cultivate environments that nourish the artistic spirit for both current and future generations. As the closing remarks of the letter highlight, it is a collective endeavor to maintain the cultural fabric of Rome, ensuring that it remains an inspiring hub of creativity and artistic expression.
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