Name
Nicola Zambelli
Professional Area
Director & Director of Photography
Company
SMK Factory
SMK Factory is an independent film production company based in Bologna, Italy. It specializes in creating social and cultural storytelling through creative documentaries and multimedia content. The factory is dedicated to "impact cinema"—films that challenge reality, foster empathy, and spark social change. Beyond production, SMK is a pioneer in ethical distribution through the "OpenDDB" platform (the first European portal for independent cinema), supporting a sustainable and participatory ecosystem for filmmakers and audiences alike.
Country
Italy
Accreditation
BIO TO B | DOC
Nicola Zambelli is an Italian filmmaker, visual artist, and photographer focused on social issues and human rights. He holds a degree in Hermeneutic Philosophy and a Master’s in Documentary Filmmaking from IED Milan. He is co-founder of SMK Factory and of the independent distribution platform OpenDDB.it.His main works as director and DoP include Sarura. The Future is an Unknown Place (2022) and 11 Days within Prison Walls (2024); he also served as cinematographer for Kissing Gorbaciov and The Milky Way. He develops projects that combine visual research with social impact, working across cinema and art in collaboration with international institutions and NGOs. His films have been screened and awarded at numerous international festivals.