Daphne di Cinto Influencing Change with Il Moro: The Oscar-Qualifying Short Film
Director Daphne di Cinto Blazes a Trail for Directors Making a Social Impact
The short film “Il Moro” is a captivating piece of work directed by Daphne Di Cinto. The film revolves around the life of Alessandro de’ Medici, an intriguing historical figure. Alessandro de’ Medici was the first Duke of Florence and ruled during the Renaissance period.
Daphne Di Cinto’s direction brings this fascinating story to life with her unique vision and storytelling techniques. Through her artistic lens, she captures the essence of Alessandro de’ Medici’s character and presents it in a compelling manner.
The Story Behind “Il Moro”
Il Moro is a short film about the first black man to become a head of state in Renaissance Europe. Alessandro de’ Medici is legitimized into the most prestigious Italian family, but he keeps on being haunted by the stigma of his low birth, inherited from a mother he only barely remembers. When he unexpectedly becomes the first Duke of Florence, Alessandro is forced to face his real father’s inability to accept him and fend off his cousin’s power-hungry attacks, while strengthening his self-awareness and his roots. Based on true events, “Il Moro” transports its viewers to Renaissance Florence, focusing on Alessandro de’ Medici as he navigated through a maze of political intrigues, societal prejudices, and personal dilemmas. Alessandro de’ Medici’s life is a testament to resilience against the backdrop of societal constraints and expectations.
Recognition, At Long Last
Alessandro de’ Medici’s tomb labels have been left unmarked for hundreds of years, with no trace of his name to be found — even in the description panels for tourists.
After delving deeply into his remarkable story, Di Cinto felt she could not sit idly by while this man’s name was erased from history.
Di Cinto petitioned the Council of Florence in 2022 to give Alessandro’s tomb the proper grave marker for the recognition he deserves. As of November 7th, 2023, the Council has accepted her request, and they have changed the panels.
For the first time in over 500 years since his death, Alessandro de’ Medici’s tomb is finally labeled, making his resting place one that recognizes his truth. A stunning and history making accomplishment by Di Cinto, the successful achievement is one that Afro-Italians and all humanity can celebrate. Driving change and making societal impact is in di Cinto’s DNA.
Daphne Di Cinto — A Multi-faceted Talent
Daphne Di Cinto is no stranger to period pieces. Starring in the popular Netflix series, ‘Bridgerton,’ as the young Duchess of Hastings, Di Cinto has taken her prodigious talents behind the camera for her directorial debut with ‘Il Moro.’
Di Cinto is a screenwriter, director, and actor whose experience in the film industry began with her studies in Rome, where she focused on acting at Scuola di Cinema while also working on her Communications Science degree at Roma Tre University. She then went on to attend the illustrious Sorbonne University in Paris before moving to New York in pursuit of her Master of Fine Arts at The Actors Studio Drama School.
Being of Afro-Italian descent, Daphne feels a solid connection to de’ Medici’s story and an unbreakable tie to Italy itself. While developing a series based on Alessandro’s life, she wrote, directed, and produced ‘Il Moro,’ which has proved to be a success in both the film festival circuit and among the most prestigious academic institutions of the world.
In addition to winning the Reel Sisters Film Festival, Daphne also has the Cultured Focus Visionary in Film Award from the 79th Venice Film Festival and the Leader of Change in Creativity Award at the 2023 Black Carpet Awards under her belt.
More Than a Remarkable Story
‘Il Moro’ has proven to be more than just a compelling storyline and a visually arresting film. The painstaking attention to detail and dedication to historical accuracy is admirable. Di Cinto collaborated closely with historians and art directors to ensure that the meticulously crafted sets and the intricate costumes invoked the spirit of Florence during the Renaissance, transporting the viewer back in time.
The authenticity and passion can be felt by viewers and critics alike. We give the ‘Il Moro’ film five stars. This film deserves every award that comes its way — not only for the film itself but for the conversation that it has inspired.
Awards aside, ‘Il Moro’ aims to present the world with the opportunity to engage in the narrative surrounding the often-overlooked history of Afro-Europeans. While this poignant tale focuses specifically on Afro-Italians, it opens up a broader discussion about representation, equality, and the significance of telling the stories of those whose voices have long been silenced in society.
For more on the film and ways to support, visit the website: https://www.ilmorofilm.com/. More details can also be found at:
www.culturedfocusmagazine.com.
The trailer can be viewed on Youtube.
Follow Il Moro on IMDB and on Instagram for more of the latest updates.
See the director’s latest interview with The Hollywood Reporter with other Oscar contenders.
