Football Drama 'Forza' Secures International Distribution Ahead of Tokyo Market Debut

"Forza," a captivating football drama directed by Marco Balsamo, chronicling a young Balinese boy's dream of becoming a professional footballer and his unexpected encounter with a former AC Milan star, has secured international sales rights with EST N8. This pivotal agreement will see the film presented at the Tokyo International Film Festival's market, TIFFCOM, after its debut screening at Jakarta Film Week, underscoring its global appeal and heartfelt narrative.

The film, a production spanning Bali and Milan, delves into the life of Bima, an 11-year-old with aspirations of football stardom as a means to uplift his family. His journey takes an unforeseen turn when he crosses paths with a former AC Milan player in the twilight of his career. This chance meeting profoundly impacts both characters, offering them new perspectives and opportunities. The ensemble cast includes emerging talent Ghazi Alhabsyi, director Marco Balsamo, Tara Sibel Demren, AC Milan legend Alessandro Costacurta, and Indonesian Film Festival awardees Atiqah Hasiholan, Oka Antara, and Tio Pakusadewo.

Written and produced by Balsamo and Demren, "Forza" is a Riva Studios original production, with Ario Sagantoro, known for "The Raid" franchise, among its producers. The film is slated for a theatrical release in Indonesia in 2027, distributed by Adhya Pictures. Public interest in Indonesia is notably high, with online tickets for its Jakarta screening selling out within minutes, signaling a promising reception for its themes of ambition and human spirit.

Sophie Shi, Head of Studios at EST N8, articulated the film's universal message, emphasizing its ability to bridge cultural divides through the shared passion of football. She highlighted the company's mission to champion bold Asian narratives globally, identifying "Forza" as a family-oriented film with the potential for widespread international resonance. The deal for international distribution was meticulously negotiated by Sophie Shi and Jan Paul Villanueva representing EST N8, and by Marco Balsamo and Tara Sibel Demren for Riva Studios. Villanueva, as EVP of acquisitions and global distribution, alongside Cathy Ni, Head of Sales and U.S. distribution, and Shams Pasha, Global Sales and Marketing Executive, will spearhead the sales efforts.

Balsamo conveyed the dedication invested in bringing "Forza" to fruition, noting Indonesia's integral role in its development. He described the project as a labor of love, embodying the collaborative essence of independent filmmaking, and expressed particular anticipation for its premiere at Jakarta Film Week. Demren, co-founder of Riva Studios, underscored the film's objective as a communal viewing experience, designed to inspire conversations among families. She shared her hopes that Bima's narrative would reinforce the importance of belief and support, especially when dreams seem distant, and expressed excitement for audience feedback following the rapid sell-out of initial tickets. Riva Studios, established by Demren and Balsamo in 2022, focuses on diverse media including live action, animation, and music, and expanded its portfolio with the acquisition of French animation house TeamTO in 2024, with "Forza" marking its inaugural live-action feature.

This football-centric drama, rich in themes of familial support, overcoming obstacles, and the universal language of sport, is poised to capture the hearts of audiences globally. Its journey from Balinese landscapes to international film markets exemplifies the power of independent cinema and cross-cultural storytelling.