Last week Directors Notes had the privilege of being invited back to sit on the jury of the second edition of Conero Film + Adv – taking place from the 6th – 8th of September, organised by Local Bizarro and MontanariPR. This year’s edition welcomed and hosted agencies, production companies, brands and directors into the heart of the Conero Natural Park in Italy, harnessing a unique and refreshing blend of forward thinking film festival curation and the spirit and collaboration of a creative retreat. Conero Film + Adv saw an impressive second year growth with 800 films submitted from 34 countries, screening 60 projects and featuring a host of engaging and educational industry panels, along with a filmmaker Q&a hosted by Dn’s own MarBelle.

Amongst the winners and attendees, Dn was delighted to re-connect with Cfa’s Nico Montanari and Mattia Fiumani – who we spoke to last year about the festival’s unique sustainability ethos across its curation and operations,...