Masai Mara, 3min,. Italy
Directed by Andrea Bufi
In the heart of the Masai Mara, amid the smiles of children, Masai dances, and the wild breath of the savannah, an intense and authentic visual story unfolds.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
The motivation came from the desire to discover a world so distant from ours, a place with different cities, sounds, landscapes, animals, and cultures. I was deeply inspired by the bond between nature and humanity that exists in the Masai Mara. It's a place where time slows down, where the connection between the earth, animals, and people feels pure and sacred. I wanted to capture that emotional balance, that peace between "sky and earth" and turn it into a short but powerful visual experience.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
The project began with the simple idea of documenting and keeping a memory of my trip to Kenya. I had no intention of submitting it to festivals, and it wasn't even on my mind at first. The first version, about five or six minutes long, was edited directly while I was still on vacation. The final version, shaped for festivals, came later, after reflecting on and revisiting all the footage, turning it into something deeper and more personal.

3. How would you describe your film in two words?
Harmony and devotion.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
It happened during a complicated period, both personally and professionally. I was going through a difficult emotional situation and felt overwhelmed by work. One day, I decided to challenge myself to see if I could truly stand out in the filmmaking world, which has always been my ambition. More than anything, I wanted to understand if my work could be recognized, to regain self-confidence and remind myself of what I'm capable of.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
It was truly moving. Seeing people connect emotionally with my images, feeling that same sense of peace and wonder I experienced there was incredibly rewarding.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I realized I wanted to pick up a camera not necessarily for cinema itself, but as a tool for work and personal growth. I wanted to build a future as a videomaker, to tell stories and convey emotions, above all, to do it out of passion.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
I wouldn't say I have one favorite film, but rather several directors whose style I deeply admire. There are many films I love for different reasons, and choosing only one would be too limiting.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Festivals like this already do something extraordinary, they give visibility to independent filmmakers. It would be amazing to have even more opportunities for networking, collaborations, or masterclasses with other filmmakers, a way to grow not only as artists but also as a creative community.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experience been working on the festival platform site?
It was smooth and efficient. FilmFreeway makes it easy to discover new festivals and connect with people who truly appreciate independent cinema.

10. What is your favorite meal?
Pizza, of course.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
I'm trying to find the right moment. Work keeps me very busy, and it's not always easy to focus on my personal goals. But I'll find a way, maybe for another short film where I can dedicate myself even more and continue to grow as a filmmaker.