From 2 to 4 May 2025, the city of Mestre, Italy, became a vibrant stage for imagination, activism, and artistic innovation as it hosted the first edition of Stop e-Motion Days (SeM Days) — an international festival entirely dedicated to the magic of stop-motion animation. Organised by the cultural collective Quarta Parete and held at the M9 Museum of the 20th Century, the festival welcomed audiences from across Italy and beyond to celebrate this unique cinematic form that blends handcrafted techniques with boundless creativity.
SeM Days presented a rich and diverse programme that went far beyond film screenings. From claymation and puppet animation to pixilation and cutout styles, the festival showcased the many possibilities of frame-by-frame storytelling, offering space to both emerging and established creators. A series of masterclasses, retrospectives, interactive workshops, and talks fostered learning and dialogue, while exhibitions and educational labs created direct links between students, professionals, and the local community.
A Cultural Space for Civic Engagement
As an organisation committed to strengthening democracy through citizen participation and cultural dialogue, ALDA proudly joined SeM Days as an official partner, supporting the festival both financially and through active involvement in its programme.
Recognising the power of the arts to promote civic awareness and democratic values, ALDA established the “Premio ALDA” (ALDA Award) — a special prize granted to a short stop-motion film that embodies European values and encourages active participation. The award was conceived not only as a recognition of artistic excellence but as an opportunity to highlight works that inspire audiences to reflect, act, and engage.
A dedicated jury of ALDA staff and members, coordinated with the support of ALDA Board Member Francesco Zarzana, reviewed over 70 films submitted to the festival’s international competition. Among the many powerful and moving entries, “Our Uniform” by Iranian director Yegane Moghaddam stood out for its originality, emotional depth, and clear message. Through a delicate and personal lens, the film explores the relationship between identity, gender roles, and memory, using school uniforms as a symbol of social expectations and internalised narratives.
🎬 “Our Uniform” tells a deeply human story with minimalist beauty and profound resonance. It is a moving example of how artistic expression can challenge norms and spark reflection — perfectly aligned with ALDA’s mission.”
ALDA Takes the Stage in Mestre
During the festival’s opening ceremony on 2 May, ALDA’s Secretary General, Antonella Valmorbida, delivered institutional greetings and reaffirmed ALDA’s commitment to culture as a vector of democracy and participation. Speaking to an audience of artists, educators, and citizens, she emphasised the importance of supporting spaces where artistic talent meets civic engagement.
At the closing ceremony on 4 May, Alice Lazzarin, ALDA’s Project Manager, joined Valmorbida in awarding the ALDA Prize and announcing the winning film. The moment marked not only the culmination of the jury’s work but a celebration of the shared values that connect creativity and civic consciousness.
ALDA also engaged internally by encouraging its staff to take part in the jury. Over a dozen colleagues volunteered to watch and assess the competing films, bringing diverse perspectives into the evaluation process. This initiative further exemplified the collaborative spirit and commitment to participation that ALDA promotes across all its activities.
SeM Days: A Festival that Builds Bridges
More than just a film festival, Stop e-Motion Days aims to establish a lasting space for cultural exchange. Rooted in local enthusiasm and driven by the energy of young volunteers, it offered a rare opportunity to merge the world of cinema with democratic reflection. ALDA’s involvement helped reinforce this bridge, demonstrating how European cooperation can thrive in creative, community-based spaces.
The initiative also aligned with ALDA’s participation in OG25 – the 2025 Year of Active European Citizenship, underlining the organisation’s belief that culture is an essential dimension of public engagement.
