Award-winning producer and director, Mike Montagna originates from Pavia, a city close to Milan, Italy. He possesses an inherent passion for storytelling and an ingrained cinematic culture. Through the eye of the movie camera, Mike delves into the essence of human nature and raises inquiries about our existence as human beings.
His producing project, “Margine” is a tale about the friendship between two guys that transcends time. Lorenzo is a dreamer who yearns to leave his hometown to learn about the world; Riccardo is the miller’s son and wants to carry on the family tradition. Lorenzo leaves the village just after high school, promising Riccardo to return from time to time to visit him. The short describes their reunions, the narration of their experiences over the years, albeit a veil of disturbing ambiguity becomes increasingly present.
We caught up with Mike to chat about the drama-film “Margine.”
Welcome Mike! You have been busy in Hollywood. Tell us about “Margine.”
“Margine” is a film that intricately weaves a poignant narrative that delves into the complexities of friendship, identity, and the passage of time within the confines of a small village. Through the dynamic relationship between Lorenzo, the restless dreamer, and Riccardo, the steadfast miller’s son, the film explores the tension between individual aspirations and communal expectations. Episodic reunions punctuate their journey, set against the backdrop of tranquil landscapes and rustic charm, evoking a sense of nostalgia and introspection. Within this atmospheric setting, “Margine” embraces ambiguity and unresolved tensions, hinting at underlying mysteries and unspoken truths that underscore the intricacies of human connection. Through its evocative storytelling and thematic resonance, the film invites audiences on a reflective exploration of the transient nature of friendship, the inexorable passage of time, and the enduring power of human bonds amidst life’s uncertainties and the enigmatic currents that shape their narrative trajectory.
What was your role within the project?
As the producer of “Margine,” I have played a dynamic and pivotal role in shaping the film’s journey from inception to completion. I have been driving the project forward, securing financing, fostering creative collaboration, and overseeing logistical coordination. I have been deeply involved in every aspect of the production process. Collaborating closely with the writer-director, Michele Bucci, and key creatives, I have worked to bring the vision of “Margine” to life, ensuring that it resonates authentically with audiences while maintaining artistic integrity. Through strategic distribution planning and industry insights, I have strived to maximize the film’s reach and impact, ultimately contributing to its success.
It has indeed been challenging because at some point of the production, I have had to take off for the USA. Despite the geographical distance, I have continued to remotely oversee various aspects of the production, leveraging technology and maintaining constant communication with the team to ensure that the project stays on track. Managing the responsibilities of a film producer across different countries has required careful coordination and adaptability, but it has also provided unique opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration and innovation. By embracing the challenges and navigating the complexities of working internationally, I have been able to contribute to the success of “Margine” while broadening my own professional horizons in the process.
Can you spill some tea with fun facts on set?
Not being able to be on set presented its challenging, but I imagine it must have been funny and rewarding, nonetheless. Michele kept me posted at the end of each day of production, and he had the biggest challenge for sure, having to shoot this film in just a couple of days, and to make it with two young but very talented actors.
How did you get involved?
I became involved in the project because I was deeply moved by the narrative of “Margine” and its potential to resonate with audiences. The first time the amazing Italian director and video maker Michele Bucci told me about this compelling story of friendship, identity, and the passage of time, I saw an opportunity to bring this poignant tale to life on the screen. With my background in film production and a passion for storytelling, I felt uniquely equipped to take on the role of producer and shepherd the project from inception to completion. Whether through personal connections, industry networking, or a fortuitous encounter with the script, I recognized the inherent value of “Margine” and felt compelled to invest my time and expertise in its realization. Guided by a sense of purpose and a commitment to excellence, I have been dedicated to ensuring that “Margine” reaches its full potential and resonates with audiences worldwide.
Can you share the filming locations?
The film was shot in Lovere, an ancient Roman settlement, and one of the most wonderful burgs in Italy.
Is the movie available for us to see?
“Margine” has just ended its film festival run and will be available on Vimeo soon.
If you weren’t into producing movies or TV shows what else would you be doing?
Remaining into the cinema context I’d say that probably I could have been a cinema history teacher. I think a wide knowledge of cinema history is mandatory if you want to be a filmmaker, in every department. Knowing what happened before you and how it happened is so fascinating and it can make you discover a hidden passion, an interest, a curiosity you’d like to explore with your own movie.
I’d like to teach this concept to some new freshman starving of being a movie producer, director, screenwriter, production designer etc.
If I have to think outside the world of cinema, I’d probably be in the communication branch or I could have been a psychologist, because I think I’m a good listener and I have a deep empathy that makes me understand people without any type of judgment.
If you had one message to give to your fans, what would it be?
Life is an opportunity and making movies is a privilege. Tell your story, ask questions, be curious, laugh, cry, respect everyone and make the audience enjoy your film.
Thank you, Mike. What’s the best way to follow you online?