Magma Debut - Debut Film Festival
International debut feature films between Catania and Acireale
About Magma Debut
Debut cinema under the stars of Catania
Magma Debut is the summer spin-off of Magma - Short Film Exhibition, the historic Sicilian festival dedicated to short films, active for over twenty years. Launched in 2022, Magma Debut focuses on debut works: the first feature films by directors from every corner of the globe, selected for their fresh perspectives and the power of their storytelling. The festival takes place in the Municipality of Catania, at the Arena Argentina, and concludes in Acireale, in the Etna province, a beating heart of cinematic culture in Eastern Sicily.
Five debut films in competition
Each edition features five debut films in competition, one per evening, on a journey through diverse cinematographies: France, Spain, Kyrgyzstan, the Philippines, Italy, and many other countries have taken turns on the screen over the years. At the end of the event, a jury of film professionals awards the Debut Award for the best debut feature film. Screenings are often accompanied by the presence of directors and guests, who engage with the audience to delve into themes, creative processes, and cultural contexts.
Between Catania and Acireale
The festival's format embraces two iconic locations in the Etna area: most screenings are held at the Arena Argentina in Catania, while the closing night moves to the Multisala Margherita in Acireale, where the winning film is announced. An itinerary that highlights the bond between the festival and its land, Sicily, a region always attentive to auteur cinema.
A supported and deep-rooted project
Artistically directed by Andrea Magnani, director, screenwriter, and producer, Magma Debut is supported by SIAE as part of the "Per Chi Crea" program, the Sicilian Region, the Sicily Film Commission, and the Ministry of Culture. The festival offers free admission, a choice that makes debut cinema accessible to everyone and has helped build a loyal and passionate audience.
Why it's worth it
- Five international debut films in competition, one per evening
- Open-air screenings at the Arena Argentina in Catania
- Q&A sessions with directors and guests after screenings
- Free admission to all evenings
- Final night in Acireale with the award ceremony
Magma Debut — edition 2026
From June 15 to 19, 2026, Magma Debut returned for its fifth edition with five international debut films in competition. The first four screenings were held at the Arena Argentina in Catania (June 15-18), while the final evening took place on June 19 at the Multisala Margherita in Acireale, with the announcement of the winning film.
In competition: Nino by Pauline Loquès (France, winner of the César Award for Best First Film), Muy Lejos by Gerard Oms (Spain), Backstage Madness by Amanbek Azhymat (Kyrgyzstan, Italian premiere), Filipiñana by Rafael Manuel (Philippines), and Gioia mia by Sicilian director Margherita Spampinato (Italy, David di Donatello for Best First Film), screened on the final night in Acireale.
The all-female jury consisted of director Silvia Brunelli, Latvian producer Elina Losa, and actress from Catania Manuela Ventura. The artistic direction is by Andrea Magnani. Free admission.
Programme Magma Debut 2026
2026 Program
- June 15 - Arena Argentina, Catania: Nino by Pauline Loquès (France)
- June 16 - Arena Argentina, Catania: Muy Lejos by Gerard Oms (Spain)
- June 17 - Arena Argentina, Catania: Backstage Madness by Amanbek Azhymat (Kyrgyzstan, Italian premiere)
- June 18 - Arena Argentina, Catania: Filipiñana by Rafael Manuel (Philippines)
- June 19 - Multisala Margherita, Acireale: Gioia mia by Margherita Spampinato (Italy) and award ceremony
Highlights Magma Debut 2026
Prices Magma Debut 2026
Practical information — Magma Debut
How to get there
The Arena Argentina is located in Catania, easily accessible by car and public transport. Catania is served by the Vincenzo Bellini-Fontanarossa International Airport and the Catania Centrale railway station. The final evening is held at the Multisala Margherita in Acireale, about 15 km from the main city, reachable by car or regional connections.
Admission
Admission to the screenings is free. It is recommended to arrive early for the evenings at the Arena Argentina, which can attract large crowds.
When
The festival usually takes place in the second half of June, over five consecutive evenings.
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Where does it take place — Magma Debut
Arena Argentina