PROJECT OVERVIEW
A raw, immersive docufilm chronicling the historical opening of the Columbus Covid 2 Hospital in Rome. Established in record time during the peak of the March 2020 pandemic, this facility became a symbol of the Italian emergency response.
The documentary provides an unprecedented look behind the closed doors of the "red zones," capturing the arrival of the first patients, the frantic reconversion of ordinary wards into Intensive Care Units (ICU) in just 10 days, and the immense psychological pressure on the medical staff. Due to its high historical and journalistic value, the documentary was broadcast on Rai 1, Italy's primary national television channel.
THE CHALLENGE: FILMING IN THE "RED ZONE"
Working as a filmmaker during the initial COVID-19 outbreak required more than just technical skill; it demanded extreme discipline and adherence to strict safety protocols:
High-Risk Cinematography: I filmed inside active ICU wards, documenting the delicate operations of medical teams while wearing full PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), ensuring zero interference with life-saving maneuvers.
Ethics & Sensitivity: Balancing the "raw" reality of the emergency with the dignity of the patients. My goal was to capture the human element—the fear and courage etched on the faces of doctors and nurses.
EDITING & NARRATIVE STRUCTURE
The editorial goal was to synthesize complex clinical information with high-stakes storytelling:
Multi-Perspective Narrative: I structured the film around medical testimonies to cover the clinical, managerial, and operational challenges of the emergency.
The Patient "Fil Rouge": I used the patient transfer as the narrative spine, creating a sense of suspense and urgency that guides the viewer through the facility.
Immersive Soundscape: I combined raw on-site audio with a targeted musical score to amplify the emotional gravity of the "red zone" without compromising the documentary's journalistic integrity.
