IFF25 The Boy with Pink Trousers

A cultural phenomenon and box office sensation in Italy, this emotional drama set in a Rome high school explores the real story behind Italy’s first publicised case of online bullying. Loosely adapted from a book by Andrea’s mother Teresa Manes (played by Claudia Pandolfi), who has since become an anti-bullying advocate, this compelling film from Margherita Ferri portrays the tragic true story of 15-year-old Andrea Spezzacatene, featuring rising star Samuele Carrino in the lead role. Andrea is a gifted student and a talented singer who longs to make friends and fit in at his new school. But he soon falls prey to Christian, a charming student with a darker side. Then, when a laundry mishap causes his new red trousers, a gift from his mother, to turn pink in the wash, events take a turn for the worse as school bullying intensifies. Calling attention to the impact of bullying, homophobia and intolerance, The Boy with Pink Trousers is a moving and powerful film, honouring the memory of Andrea.