PRODUCTION
Filming is currently underway in Bali and Milan on “Forza” from Indonesia’s Adhya Pictures (“Glenn Fredly: The Movie”) and U.S.-based Riva Studios. Written and directed by Marco Balsamo, who previously produced “The Brave,” the film tells the story of Bima, an 11-year-old boy, living in poverty in Bali, who dreams of becoming a professional soccer player so he may provide for his loving family. When Bima meets Marco, a professional soccer player from Bali Royal FC who is on the brink of retirement from his football career, Bima’s once unachievable dream becomes a reality because he is given a rare chance to trial with a youth academy in Europe.
The film is produced by Riva Studios co-founders Tara Sibel and Balsamo alongside Ario Sagantoro (The Raid franchise), with Shierly Kosasih and Ricky Wijaya of Adhya Pictures serving as executive producers. The cast includes Atiqah Hasiholan, Yoriko Angeline, Arie Kriting and Tio Pakusadewo. The collaboration between Riva and Adhya are the first of many global ventures, the companies said.
“Drawing upon my own experiences in the world of soccer, both on and off the field, I’ve aimed to bring genuineness and emotional depth to the narrative. ‘Forza’ is not just about the game; it’s about the journey of a young boy whose love for football leads him on an extraordinary path of self-discovery and growth. It’s a story that underscores the importance of family, friendship, and the bridges we can build through our shared passions,” said Balsamo.
APPOINTMENT
Michael Ebeid will take over as the new chair of the Screen Australia board from outgoing chair Nicholas Moore, whose third term ends on March 30. Ebeid was initially appointed to the Screen Australia board on July 14, 2023. He was previously the CEO and MD of SBS, group executive at Telstra and in 2017 was made a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the broadcast media and multicultural affairs. He is currently a non-executive director of the Sydney Opera House and BAI Communications.Deputy chair Megan Brownlow has been reappointed to the board for two years.
PODCAST
International podcast festival The Podcast Show is set to return to London, U.K. this spring. Taking place from May 22-23, the show will welcome over 15,000 delegates as well as numerous speakers, including Blanchard House co-founder Rosie Pye, the makers of “The Traitors: Uncloaked” and Gemma Atkinson.
More speakers are set to be announced in due course, with more than 130 in-person panels and sessions planned. Amazon Music and Wondery are official partners of the show.
