Cinema and photography, two closely connected and complementary worlds, both capable of telling stories, evoking emotions, and capturing fragments of reality through images that reveal the essence of humanity. British director Peter Chelsom, known for his acclaimed films and collaborations with some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, has always nurtured a deep passion for photography, an obsession that began in his childhood. An exhibition hosted at MyOwnGallery during MIA Photo Fair BNP Paribas unveils the director’s sharp and ironic gaze, offering the public a journey behind the scenes and into his personal exploration of the “dream role.”

"Dream Role", curated by Beatrice Audrito, presents a selection of photographs taken on the sets of numerous films directed by Chelsom, including Funny Bones, Shall We Dance?, Serendipity, Hector and the Search for Happiness, and many others. Through black and white images, the director’s lens captures not only on-set moments but also intimate and spontaneous interactions with the stars he has worked with. Among the featured faces are cinema icons such as Jerry Lewis, Charlton Heston, Gary Oldman, Warren Beatty, Jennifer Lopez, and many more, with whom Chelsom has often formed a unique and special bond.
However, the exhibition is not just about behind-the-scenes photography. A key section is dedicated to "Dream Role", an ongoing project in which the director invites actors and celebrities to step into the role they have always dreamed of playing but never had the opportunity to portray. The result is a remarkable collection of images with a distinctive style, reflecting the authentic artistic vision that defines Peter Chelsom’s work, seamlessly bridging the worlds of cinema and photography in a perfect balance between dream and reality.

Info:
"Dream Role" by Peter Chelsom
MIA Photo Fair BNP Paribas, March 20–23, 2025, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Superstudio Più, Via Tortona 27
Full program: www.miafairbnpparibas.it