The documentary film "Testimonianza" (Witness), directed by filmmaker Roberto Orazi, will officially be released on the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s YouTube channel on Friday, January 23, at 7 p.m. The production offers a choral narrative composed of diverse life experiences, focusing on themes of hope, spiritual seeking, and personal journey.
A Narrative Built on Lived Experience
The documentary begins by addressing a fundamental inquiry: “What is faith?” Rather than providing a definitive or dogmatic answer, the film utilizes a direct narrative approach designed to initiate a process of reflection. Faith is portrayed not as an abstract theological concept, but as a dynamic reality shaped by time and personal experience.
Director Roberto Orazi characterizes the film’s subjects as "testimonies" rather than mere interviewees, emphasizing a focus on lived reality over formal definitions. This perspective allows the documentary to enter a deeper territory of personal choice and expectation, moving beyond a standard historical or journalistic chronicle of a religious community.
Allegory and Symbolism
A central feature of the film is the allegorical figure of a colporteur—a traveling book salesman from a previous era—portrayed by Cesare Tascedda. This character moves through various domestic and public spaces, reflecting on the meaning of his own path.
This narrative device serves several functions: It evokes a concrete sense of encounter and human connection; It symbolizes the act of "knocking on a neighbor’s door," representing the documentary’s broader themes of outreach and dialogue; It bridges the gap between traditional mission work and modern spiritual inquiry.
Broad Appeal and Production
While focusing on the Adventist community, "Testimonianza" is intentionally designed for a broad audience, including those without a specific religious affiliation. The film invites viewers to engage with authentic storytelling and the universal human search for meaning.
The project was realized with the support of the 8x1000 tax allocation funds designated to the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Italy.
The full interview with director Roberto Orazi is available via Radio RVS.
The world premiere will take place on January 23 at 7:00 PM.
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