Maltese actor and presenter Martin Sapiano is set to appear in I Bambini Giocano alla Guerra, a powerful production carrying a universal message of peace through the innocent eyes of children.

Created from a concept by Marilanda Majello, directed by Mario Santocchio and produced by Max Films, the project highlights how children are often conditioned by the adult world to learn conflict rather than peace.

In I Bambini Giocano alla Guerra, children engage in an innocent game filled with smiles, laughter and paper bombs. Yet behind this apparent simplicity lies a profound message. As the children grow older, the game is replaced by the harsh reality of war, where innocence is lost and children themselves become the primary victims of conflict.

The production stars young actor Matthew Hammett alongside a cast of Maltese children including Rita Pisani, Caszneya  Sapiano, Raquela Sapiano, Elea Marie Borg Cardona and Kuca Camilleeri with well-known personality Martin Sapiano taking on a key role. The text was written by Marvin Lark and the music composed by Vezio Bacci under the artistic supervision of Maestro Adriano Pennino.

The production is scheduled to premiere on 4 September during events linked to the Venice Film Festival, one of the world's most prestigious cinematic showcases. Held annually on the historic Lido of Venice, the festival provides an international platform for films and productions that spark dialogue, creativity and social reflection.

Speaking about the project, Sapiano said:

"Children naturally dream, laugh and play together. The message of Children Play War reminds us that peace should never become a forgotten game. It is a powerful reminder that the world we leave to future generations depends on the choices we make today."

At its heart, Children Play War is a manifesto inviting adults to reflect on the values being passed on to younger generations. The production reminds audiences that peace is not merely an ideal but a responsibility, one that belongs in the hands of today's children and tomorrow's adults.

Through its moving imagery and universal message, Children Play War seeks to inspire audiences to rediscover peace as "the forgotten game" and to imagine a future without borders, fear or division.