Experiencing Interruptions?

Into Hibernation

As winter approaches and the seasonal drought hits his small business, Massimo Trasatti - a lifelong farmer living with his 90-year-old mother on Villa Sirena’s farm - discovers in the newly found free time an opportunity to spend time with his family.

LONG SYNOPSIS
As winter descends on Villa Sirena, the rhythmic labor of farm life slows to a halt. For Massimo Trasatti, a lifelong farmer living in the shadow of a seasonal drought, this forced stillness becomes an unexpected gift. With the fields dormant, Massimo finds himself drawn back into the domestic heart of the farm, sharing the quiet, repetitive rituals of daily life with his 90-year-old mother and ill cat. Through a lens of patient, observational intimacy, Into Hibernation explores the dignity of rural labor, the value of found time, and the delicate, enduring bonds that anchor a family together.

  • Raffaele Trasatti
    Director
  • Raffaele Trasatti
    Producer
  • Massimo Trasatti
    Key Cast
    "Self"
  • Paola Pacini
    Key Cast
    "Self"
  • Raffaele Trasatti
    Cinematography
  • Raffaele Trasatti
    Editor
  • Project Title (Original Language):
    In Letargo
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short, Student
  • Genres:
    Observational, Comedy
  • Runtime:
    10 minutes 58 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    May 18, 2025
  • Production Budget:
    0 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United Kingdom
  • Country of Filming:
    Italy
  • Language:
    Italian
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital, Panasonic S5II
  • Aspect Ratio:
    4:3
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Newcastle University
  • 20th Kinofilm Manchester Short Film Festival
    Manchester
    United Kingdom
    May 18, 2025
    World Premiere
    Official Selection
  • 15th Mediterraneo Festival Corto Diamante

    No Screening
    Semi-finalist
  • FABA Film Festival

    No Screening
    Official Selection
  • Cinemagic Young Filmmmakers 2025
    Belfast
    United Kingdom
    October 26, 2025
    Official Selection
  • RTS Awards - North East and the Borders

    No Screening
    Nominee - Student Factual (short)
  • 11th Sunderland Shorts Film Festival
    Sunderland
    United Kingdom
    May 13, 2026
    North East Premiere
    Official Selection
Director Biography - Raffaele Trasatti

Raffaele Trasatti is an emerging filmmaker based in Newcastle Upon Tyne (UK) and Manchester (UK). His short film, "Into Hibernation", explores themes of family and the value of time through a visually striking and emotionally resonant narrative embedded in the craft of observational filmmaking. Raffaele's work is driven by a passion for thought-provoking storytelling and a desire to explore the nuances of human experience.
Trasatti utilises his unique "insider" perspective to capture subcultures with authenticity and emotional depth.

His works have been screened at festivals internationally, obtaining BIFA and Grierson-qualified status and receiving two RTS North East and The Borders Awards nominations. His latest documentary short, A Game to Remember, explores the nuances of male grief within the North East’s sporting community. Driven by a passion for thought-provoking, cinematic storytelling, Raffaele is currently developing more projects that continue to explore the complexities of the human experience.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

As a student filmmaker, 'Into Hibernation' represents a culmination of my passion for storytelling and a deep dive into the exploration of the value of time and family. This project was born from a desire to shine a light on the rural communities of Middle Italy and was realised as part of Newcastle University's film course.
To stay true to the tradition of observational documentary-making, I strived to create a visually compelling experience, utilizing a handheld camera and no over-diegetic narrative devices to enhance the emotional resonance of the story.
'Into Hibernation' is more than just a student film. I hope this film sparks dialogue and resonates with audiences on a personal level. I am eager to continue my journey as a filmmaker, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share this work with you.