Isabella Rossellini Criticizes Empty Cinemas and U.S. Politics at Locarno Honor
Isabella Rossellini received the Excellence Award at the Locarno Film Festival and spoke about the troubling state of local cinemas being empty. She also addressed the very bad political situation in the U.S., though she said she is not leaving the country for now. The Italian-American actress and filmmaker added that she does not like TV shows.
Rossellini tied her reluctance to relocate to her commitment to Mama Farm, her Long Island estate founded in 2013, where she keeps sheep and hens. She affirmed she will stay put for now, hoping the political climate improves.
Addressing industry shifts, she observed that festivals are packed while neighborhood cinemas remain empty, even as 2026 box office projections look strong. She also dismissed long television series, not for creative reasons, but because they demand months away from home, leading her to favor guest spots over theater.
Rossellini's remarks could resonate with industry professionals grappling with the divide between prestigious festival showcases and struggling local theaters. Her hesitation to leave the U.S. despite political discontent may offer a nuanced perspective for creatives considering relocation, potentially influencing talent retention debates. Additionally, her preference for guest roles over lengthy series might highlight ongoing concerns about actor burnout and the demanding schedules of modern television production.