IFF26: Malavia

Australian premiere

A compelling coming-of-age drama from Nunzia De Stefano, Malavia tells the story of a Neapolitan boy who uses music to try to make something of himself.

Sasà, a thirteen-year-old boy from the outskirts of Naples, spends his days listening to rap music with his two best friends. Raised by his single mother Rusè, the two share a deep bond, but it is tested by jealousy, poverty, and the pressures of a difficult environment. A lover of hip-hop with great musical talent, Sasà dreams of becoming a famous rapper so he can provide his mother with a better life.

An encounter with Yodi, a well-known figure in the Neapolitan old-school rap scene, gives hope and momentum to Sasà's dream, leading him to compose his first real track: a rap song dedicated to Rusè. However, faced with the tough realities of the music industry, will Sasà be able to keep working towards his aspirations, or will he turn to crime and risk losing everything?

NOMINEE – Best Song, Nastro d’Argento Awards 2026
OFFICIAL SELECTION – Rome Film Fest 2025 (Freestyle)
OFFICIAL SELECTION – Zlin Film Festival 2026

Italian and Neapolitan dialect with English subtitles