Anyone who’s interested in the history of Maltese film is likely to have come across the name Cecil Satariano (1930-1996), one of Malta’s pioneering filmmakers, critics, and authors. Known for his innovative work on small-gauge film, Satariano directed five award-winning films and two travelogues between 1969 and 1978, leaving an enduring mark on Malta’s cinematic landscape.

His second film, Giuseppi (1971), won an impressive 20 international awards, while his final film, Katarin (1978), became the first Maltese film acquired by a major foreign distributor, cementing his place in film history.

This month, the National Archives of Malta is hosting a special retrospective to honour Cecil Satariano, taking place at Spazju Kreattiv from Thursday 23rd to Saturday 25th October.

In a historic milestone, Satariano’s five films have now been digitised and meticulously restored through The Cecil Satariano Film Restoration Project, led by Veronica Galea. This project allows a new generation to experience his work like never before. The restored films are now part of the National Archives’ permanent collection and will be shown on the big screen during this special event, which also includes panel discussions and presentations highlighting Satariano’s enduring influence.

Here’s a look at the schedule for the event:

Day 1 – Presentations and Screenings

Presentation 1: Cecil Satariano: Life and Work by Jean Pierre Borg
Learn about Satariano’s journey from film critic and correspondent to activist for censorship reform and, ultimately, acclaimed filmmaker.

Presentation 2: The Cecil Satariano Film Restoration Project by Veronica Galea and Tom Bakels
Explore the restoration process with before-and-after images and film extracts, highlighting challenges such as deteriorated Super 8 and 16mm materials and multiple film edits.

Screenings:

• Giuseppi (1971, Super 8, 22 min)
• Let Them Be (1971, Super 8, 11 min)

Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, contact: [email protected]

Day 2 – Panel Discussions and Screenings

Panel 1: Cecil Satariano Remembered: Through the Eyes of Family and Collaborators
Panelists: Madeleine Vella Satariano, Mario Philip Azzopardi, Marie Benoît, Jo Debono

Panel 2: Cecil Satariano’s Significance in Malta’s Cinematic Heritage
Panelists: Rebecca Anastasi, Charlie Cauchi, Kenneth Scicluna

Screenings:

• I’m Furious – Red! (1970, Super 8, 33 min)
• A Touch of Dutch (1973, Super 8, 7 min)

Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. For details, contact: [email protected] 

Day 3 – Screening of all five restored films

Experience the complete collection of Satariano’s restored works:

• I’m Furious – Red! (1970, Super 8, 33 min)
• Giuseppi (1971, Super 8, 22 min)
• The Beach (1973, Super 8, 23 min)
• Ilona (1974, Super 8, 15 min)
• Katarin (1978, 16mm, 42 min)

Suitable for audiences aged 12 and above.

This retrospective is a must-see for film enthusiasts and anyone passionate about Maltese culture and history, offering a unique opportunity to celebrate the legacy of a true cinematic pioneer.

Are you familiar with any of his works?