MATIFF

Rocco Scotellaro Award

” The Voice of Humanity”

The Rocco Scotellaro Award, established by the Matera International Film Festival (MATIFF), honors distinguished individuals in cinema, culture, the arts, and public service whose work has advanced the values of human dignity, dialogue, social justice, and hope.

Inspired by the life and legacy of Lucanian poet and writer Rocco Scotellaro (1923–1953)—a symbol of Basilicata and an authentic voice of Southern Italy’s communities—the award celebrates those who have transformed their talent into a force for cultural enrichment and human progress.

The Award draws inspiration from Scotellaro’s celebrated words:

“I am a blade of grass, a blade of grass that trembles. And my homeland is wherever the grass trembles.”

These words embody the deepest meaning of the recognition: to give voice to people, preserve memory, foster understanding among nations and cultures, and keep alive the hope for a better future.

In previous editions, the Scotellaro Award has gone to:

Giancarlo De Cataldo (2023)