In Accademia Talk | Ferzan Özpetek

On Thursday, 27 March 2025, Accademia Costume & Moda community had the honour of welcoming back one of its most distinguished alumni, Ferzan Özpetek, for an exclusive conversation with Maurizio Sciarra, Director, Writer, Screenwriter & ACM Lecturer, and Andrea Viotti, Costume Designer & ACM Costume Department Director. A true homecoming, this event provided our students with a rare opportunity to delve into the director’s creative universe, exploring the profound connection between cinema and costume.

At the centre of the discussion was Özpetek’s latest film, Diamanti, released in December 2024—a cinematic tribute to the world of cine-theatrical tailoring, a realm where costume, craftsmanship, and storytelling intertwine to bring characters to life.

Ferzan Özpetek: A Journey from Accademia to International Acclaim

Born in Istanbul in 1959, Ferzan Özpetek moved to Rome in the 1970s, where he refined his artistic vision, studying at Sapienza University and attending Accademia Costume & Moda. It was here that he deepened his appreciation for the visual and scenic elements of storytelling, an influence that would become a defining feature of his films.

His directorial debut, Il bagno turco (1997), introduced his distinctive voice to international audiences, followed by acclaimed films such as Le fate ignoranti (2001) and La finestra di fronte (2003), the latter winning multiple David di Donatello awards. Over the years, Özpetek has established himself as one of Italian cinema’s most evocative storytellers, known for exploring themes of family, identity, and memory in films such as Saturno contro (2007), Mine vaganti (2010), and Napoli velata (2017).

His latest film, Diamanti, takes viewers behind the scenes of theatrical and cinematic costume design, celebrating the artistry and emotional depth embedded in textiles, patterns, and silhouettes. Özpetek’s ability to weave emotions through fabric and light has also led him beyond the silver screen into the world of opera, where he has directed productions at Teatro di San Carlo and La Scala in Milan.

An Unforgettable Learning Experience for Accademia’s Students

For our students, this was more than just a conversation— it was a masterclass in cinematic storytellingthrough the lens of costume design. Özpetek’s return to Accademia was a powerful reminder of the enduring relationship between fashion and film, and how garments can transcend mere clothing to become essential storytelling elements.

At Accademia Costume & Moda, we are proud to nurture the next generation of designers, storytellers, and visionaries who will continue to shape the landscape of costume and cinema. Özpetek’s journey from student to internationally celebrated filmmaker is a testament to the impact of our Academy and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead for our students.