Bastiano Ferrari. Photo Credit: Rock Jacobs.
Emmy-nominated producer and actor Bastiano Ferrari chatted about being a part of the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, which was held in France.
Walt Whitman once said: “Keep your face always toward the sunshine – and shadows will fall behind you.” This quote applies to Bastiano Ferrari.
Ferrari on the 2025 Cannes Film Festival
On being a part of the Cannes Film Festival, Ferrari said, “It was a a beautiful surprise this year. I was supposed to be filming during that week, but plans shifted last minute—and within two days, I booked my trip.”
“I went in with no expectations, and it ended up being nothing short of magical,” he said. “Being surrounded by people who live and breathe cinema was truly inspiring. I had the chance to attend several premieres, including a few brilliant European films that truly moved me with their honesty and style.”
“Being back in Europe—it felt like coming home. I had missed the culture, the food, the energy of the people… and of course, swimming in the Mediterranean. It reminded me why I love this world, both on and off screen,” he acknowledged.
‘Love Me Dead’ film screening at Cannes
Ferrari was there for a screening of “Love Me Dead,” a film he produced with director Josh Webber. “Josh asked me to join him—and when Josh calls, I show up,” Ferrari said.
“The screening was an incredible moment to share our work, get live reactions from a global audience, and prepare for the grand premiere we have coming later this year,” he elaborated.
“Collaborating with Josh is always seamless—we push each other creatively, and I’m proud of what we’ve built together,” he added.
Lessons learned from the Cannes Film Festival this year.
On the lessons learned from the Cannes Film Festival this year, Ferrari reflected, “Cannes was a powerful mirror. So many people —fans, fellow artists, and producers— recognized me, and they were gracious and shared kind words about my work.”
“They encouraged me in ways I wasn’t expecting. It made me realize how far along I’ve come,” he added.
Ferrari takes cues from Tom Cruise
Ferrari proclaimed Tom Cruise as his biggest inspiration in life, and rightfully so.
In fact, there was a director at Cannes that told Ferrari that he reminded him of Tom Cruise, and that was quite the compliment. “That was a very inspiring moment especially after meeting him in person,” Ferrari admitted.
Ferrari was even being considered for roles against actors he deeply admires such as Sam Worthington. “That hit me,” Ferrari noted. “To be compared at that level is incredibly humbling—and motivating.”
“It also reminded me of a moment earlier this year when I attended the Mission: Impossible premiere and saw Tom Cruise in person. Watching him command that room, that screen—it fueled my drive. I’ve always looked up to him. That night and Cannes both showed me: I’m on the right path,” Ferrari elaborated.
Ferrari shares his impressions of the Cannes Film Festival
Ferrari described Cannes as “electric.” “There’s something deeply moving about seeing people from all corners of the world gather in one place for the love of cinema. Every event, every conversation, every red carpet moment feels like a celebration of storytelling,” he explained.
“I was especially inspired seeing European cinema shine so brightly—some of the local films really reminded me of why I fell in love with the craft,” he noted.
“Cannes, along with Venice, is without a doubt one of my favorite festivals. If you’re in film—Cannes is where you need to be,” he added.
Tips for kids that wish to become filmmakers and get their projects displayed at Cannes
Ferrari offered his tips for kids and young filmmakers that wish to enter this profession and get their projects displayed at Cannes.
“Don’t wait for permission,” he said. “Aim higher than what seems possible today, and work relentlessly toward it. Focus on getting better every day. Collaborate, don’t compete.”
“Be someone people want on their team—generous, reliable, and driven. If you do that consistently, the world will open up in ways you can’t imagine,” he acknowledged.
Future plans
On his future plans, Ferrari remarked, “Let’s just say… there is a lot in motion. I’ve learned that sometimes the best moves are the ones made in silence—until the world is ready.”
“I’ll say this: I’ve recently had the honor of attending the Golden Globes as a guest of Variety magazine, and it was a night filled with inspiration,” he noted.
“I left with a clearer vision of the impact I want to make—not just as an actor or producer, but as a creator who brings stories to life on a global stage,” he added.
Favorite motto to live by
Regarding his favorite motto to live by, he disclosed, “Set goals so big they scare you—and then outwork them.”
“I really admire Tom Cruise, not just as a performer but as someone who takes risks and gives 100 percent to everything he touches,” Ferrari noted.
“Tom Cruise says, ‘Don’t fear the big moment—fear giving anything less than everything you’ve got.’ That’s something I live by,” Ferrari added.
Message for his fans and supporters
For his fans and supporters, Ferrari expressed, “Every step I take is because of those who believe in me. The love I felt in Cannes—from fans who stopped me, shared their stories, and connected on a human level—was unforgettable.”
“I don’t take that lightly. Thank you for your trust, your support, and your passion. Everything I do, I do with you in mind,” Ferrari concluded.
To learn more about Emmy-nominated filmmaker and actor Bastiano Ferrari, follow him on Instagram and visit his IMDb page.
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