Breaking Barriers: Why ‘I Matter’ is More Than Just a Film
When I first heard about I Matter, Alina Șerban’s directorial debut premiering at the Venice International Film Festival, one thing immediately stood out: this isn’t just another film. It’s a cultural milestone. Personally, I think what makes this particularly fascinating is the fact that it’s the first film by a Roma woman to be selected for an A-list festival. If you take a step back and think about it, this is a moment decades in the making—a testament to the power of persistence and the importance of representation.
The Personal as Political
At its core, I Matter is a deeply personal story about identity, belonging, and resilience. Șerban draws from her own experiences to craft the narrative of Rebeca, a young Roma woman navigating the complexities of family, education, and societal expectations. What many people don’t realize is that Roma stories, despite being rich and diverse, have historically been told by outsiders. This film flips that script. From my perspective, this isn’t just about telling a story—it’s about reclaiming the right to tell it.
What this really suggests is that art can be a tool for empowerment, especially for marginalized communities. Șerban’s journey from NYU Tisch to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, and now to Venice, is a reminder that talent and determination can break through systemic barriers. But it also raises a deeper question: why has it taken so long for a Roma woman to reach this stage? The answer lies in the intersection of racism, gatekeeping, and the slow pace of cultural change.
A Story That Resonates Globally
One detail that I find especially interesting is how the film’s themes—resilience, identity, and the transformative power of art—transcend cultural boundaries. Rebeca’s struggle to balance her aspirations with her roots is a universal experience, yet it’s rarely portrayed with such authenticity. In my opinion, this is where I Matter shines. It doesn’t just speak to the Roma community; it invites everyone to reflect on their own journeys.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the timing. In an era where diversity and inclusion are buzzwords, I Matter is a tangible example of what progress looks like. It’s not just about checking a box; it’s about amplifying voices that have been silenced for far too long. Personally, I think this film has the potential to spark conversations that go beyond the screen—conversations about systemic disadvantage, the role of art in social change, and the importance of owning one’s narrative.
The Power of Collaboration
Behind every groundbreaking film is a team that believes in its vision. Pluto Film’s decision to pick up international sales rights isn’t just a business move—it’s a statement. Daniela Cölle’s words about the film’s “warmly human narrative” highlight something crucial: this isn’t a story of victimhood; it’s a story of triumph. What this really suggests is that when the right people come together, art can transcend its medium and become a catalyst for change.
From my perspective, the collaboration between Șerban, producer Ada Solomon, and Pluto Film is a model for how the industry should operate. It’s not just about funding or distribution; it’s about understanding the weight of the story and treating it with the respect it deserves. A detail that I find especially interesting is the film’s extensive list of supporters, from the Romanian Film Center to Creative Europe. This isn’t just a film—it’s a movement.
Looking Ahead: What ‘I Matter’ Means for the Future
If you take a step back and think about it, I Matter is more than a film; it’s a precedent. It opens the door for more Roma filmmakers, more Roma stories, and more diverse perspectives in cinema. Personally, I think this is just the beginning. The success of this film could inspire a new wave of creators who’ve been told their stories don’t matter.
What many people don’t realize is that representation isn’t just about visibility—it’s about validation. When a young Roma girl sees herself on screen, it changes how she sees herself in the world. This raises a deeper question: how many other stories are waiting to be told? How many other voices are being silenced? I Matter is a reminder that every story matters—and that the fight for representation is far from over.
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on I Matter, I’m struck by its duality. On one hand, it’s a deeply personal story of resilience and identity. On the other, it’s a cultural landmark that challenges the status quo. In my opinion, this is what great art does—it bridges the personal and the universal, the specific and the timeless.
What this really suggests is that change, though slow, is possible. It takes courage, talent, and a refusal to be ignored. Alina Șerban’s film isn’t just a breakthrough; it’s a beacon. And as we watch Rebeca’s journey unfold on screen, we’re reminded of our own capacity to overcome, to belong, and to matter.
