La mister is a 16-minute Italian short film directed by Domenico de Ceglia, made as a student project and completed in 2025. In black and white, the film explores the world of football through a narrative approach that combines sport and education, focusing on the coach's role and the dynamics within a young men's team.
The central theme revolves around football as an educational and social space. The story follows Alice, a new coach who has to lead a group of boys initially distrustful of her methods. Sexist remarks and their initial lack of trust reveal how much prejudice can emerge in a sporting context traditionally perceived as male. Through training sessions and everyday interactions with the team, the film explores the value of sport as a tool for growth, respect and fairness.
The character of Alice is played by Claudia Casale, alongside Marco Tullio Melica. Although the story does not involve real athletes, the narrative remains firmly anchored in typical football settings: technical sessions, moments of discussion with the team, and small challenges that reflect the sporting routine of youth categories.
The film's message is clear: La mister seeks to show how determination, competence and respect can overcome prejudice, demonstrating sport's ability to form conscious, responsible individuals. The director's statement and synopsis suggest particular attention to educational values, showing the desire to offer a social narrative through a simple yet effective story.
From a production standpoint, the project was made at the Liceo Cafiero di Barletta, with Rosanna Diviccaro as producer and Domenico de Ceglia also serving as executive producer and co-writer alongside Antonella Galasso. Cinematography is by Dario Di Mella, while Alice Colella is credited for production design and Francesca Romana Valentini coordinates post-production. The film was completed on 24 May 2025; any information regarding its premiere or distribution is not stated.
Film Details
Title: La mister
Original title: La mister
Director: Domenico de Ceglia
Production: Rosanna Diviccaro, Domenico de Ceglia
Country: Italy
Language: Italian
Running time: 16 minutes 36 seconds
Genre: Fiction / Short film
Sport featured: Football
Protagonist(s): Claudia Casale, Marco Tullio Melica
Completion date: 24 May 2025
Premiere: Not stated
Distributor: Not stated
Shooting format: Full HD, 16:9, black and white
Director's first film: No
Student project: Yes – Liceo Cafiero Barletta