The Maltese feature film “Żejtune”, directed by Alex Camilleri, celebrated its Malta premiere on 18th March at Eden Cinemas in St Julian’s, marking a major milestone ahead of its nationwide release following its international debut earlier this year.The premiere brought together the film’s cast and crew, local funders, industry professionals and invited guests for a special screening.After premiering at the Göteborg Film Festival and attracting attention at the European Film Market during the Berlin International Film Festival, “Żejtune” has already secured distribution in fourteen countries across Europe and beyond.Set against the backdrop of contemporary Malta, the film follows Mar, played by Michela Farrugia, a young woman preparing to leave the island after inheriting three parcels of land following her estranged mother’s death.As she navigates the process of claiming and selling the property, she encounters Nenu, portrayed by legendary għana singer Nenu Borg, making his screen debut at the age of 82. Through his music and presence, Mar is drawn into the vibrant traditions and cultural roots of the island she is eager to escape.The film features a strong Maltese cast, including singer-songwriter Michael Azzopardi in his screen debut as Anġlu, and veteran actress Frida Cauchi as Annette, Mar’s aunt. The Malta premiere also supported the non-governmental organisation Din l-Art Ħelwa, whose work safeguarding Malta’s heritage and environment resonates closely with the themes of the film.Produced by Oliver Mallia (Pellikola), Ramin Bahrani (Noruz Films), and Alex Camilleri (Solari Productions), “Żejtune” is an international co-production with One Two Films and ZDF/Das kleine Fernsehspiel, in collaboration with Arte, Films Boutique, and Nizza Films.The production was supported by the Malta Film Commission, Arts Council Malta, the Doha Film Institute, and the Ministry for Gozo and Planning.Following the premiere, audiences will have opportunities to engage with the filmmakers during special Q&A screenings at Citadel Cinemas in Gozo on 30th March and at Embassy Cinemas in Valletta on 6th April.“Żejtune” is set for a wider release across Malta and Gozo on 8th April, with screenings at Eden Cinemas, Embassy Cinemas, and Spazju Kreattiv in Malta, and at Citadel Cinemas in Gozo.The Malta premiere marks a significant step in the film’s journey, combining local talent, cultural storytelling, and international recognition.Tag a friend to go watch it with them•