The documentary "Waterbus," directed by filmmaker and actress Silvia Busacca, has been officially selected for the New York Film and Cinematography Awards 2026, an international festival dedicated to independent cinema. The film received the highest possible score of 10/10 in the Sound & Music category, with judges praising the vocal narration and atmospheric sound design.
Filmed in Venice, Italy, "Waterbus" serves as a cinematic tribute to the city's cultural identity, blending evocative imagery with philosophical and literary references. Busacca, who has personal and artistic ties to Venice, describes the city as "a splendid and luminous pearl wrapped in the sound of violins." The documentary takes viewers on a poetic journey through canals, bridges, and the timeless atmosphere of the Serenissima.
The narration is performed by Gianluca Testa, a film producer and Director of Teatro Formativo in Rome, whose voice contributes to the contemplative tone. The documentary was produced in collaboration with Teatro Formativo and the International Center for Generative Expressivity Studies (CISEG) in Rome, both educational institutions specializing in film and performance training.
Through "Waterbus," Busacca aims to promote Italian culture globally, celebrating Venice as a universal symbol of history and art while honoring the iconic waterbuses that shape life across the Venetian Lagoon. The film's selection in New York marks a significant milestone, highlighting its growing international appeal. For more information about the filmmaker and the documentary, visit the official selection page at bestfilmawards.com and the filmmaker's profile at filmfreeway.com/silviabusacca.
The documentary continues its international festival journey, bringing a cinematic celebration of Venice's history, culture, and enduring beauty to audiences worldwide. Busacca's work underscores the power of film to preserve and share the unique heritage of one of the world's most beloved destinations.
