From the streets of Bari to the sets of Netflix and Disney Plus, Antonio Paolo Cisternino has carved out a cinematic journey defined by resilience, passion, and a desire to bridge past struggles with future triumphs. His path is one of persistence and artistry—an unfolding story that continues to gather momentum on international stages.
A Humble Beginning on Set
Antonio’s career began unexpectedly, with a small but meaningful role as a protester in the film Nonostante Xylella, inspired by the devastating plant disease that swept across Southern Italy. This early opportunity sparked something powerful in him.
Determined to hone his craft, Antonio attended his first acting school under the guidance of maestro Michele Placido, Azzurra Marino, and Vito Lopriore. His dedication was soon recognized when he was awarded at Teatro Abeliano in Bari by Antonio Stornaiolo and Emilio Solfrizzi for a poignant video on workplace safety. This moment marked the first time he felt the weight of acting not just as performance, but as impact.
Growing Into Film
As a teenager, Antonio’s steps onto film sets turned into something bigger. After his early experiences, he received invitations to work on projects like Free Liberi, directed by Fabrizio Maria Cortese, which allowed him to explore the dynamics of cinema at a deeper level.
He describes his inspiration simply: cinema is an art form that allows for communication, expression, and the preservation of memory. “It’s about telling stories that influence thought and society,” he reflects. That belief has guided him ever since.
Turning Struggles Into Strength
Antonio’s story isn’t only about lights and cameras. He openly acknowledges that his past was filled with challenges, and stepping into acting was also a step into healing. “It wasn’t so easy to get out of it,” he shares, “but since I started this journey, I’ve been very focused on my future goals.”
This sense of transformation and redemption defines the gap he aims to bridge. His career is not just about recognition—it is about proving that resilience can be reimagined into art.
Unique Energy and Personality
When asked what makes him stand out, Antonio points not to technical skills, but to his personality. Extroverted and eager to support others in artistic and cultural fields, he believes credibility and authenticity matter most. This open nature has not only made him a collaborative actor but also someone audiences connect with on-screen.
Defining Success
For Antonio, success is not a single trophy or milestone. Instead, it is an evolving awareness of who you want to be, and the goals you choose to pursue. His films, he believes, are not only stories for the moment—they are lasting pieces that preserve memory and deliver meaning.
Milestones That Matter
Among the highlights of his career, Antonio treasures meeting the legendary Sophia Loren on the set of Netflix’s The Life Ahead, directed by her son Edoardo Ponti. He also recalls with pride his role in Shoshana, a Netflix film directed by Michael Winterbottom, where he had the honor of sharing the stage with acclaimed actor Harry Melling.
More recently, Antonio became part of Disney Plus’s This Is Not Hollywood, directed by Pippo Mezzapesa—a project that further solidified his place in the international film arena.
Looking Ahead
Antonio’s ambitions stretch far beyond what he has already achieved. He hopes to collaborate with internationally renowned actors, walk red carpets across the world, and continue expanding his artistic reach through film and other creative projects.
Surprisingly, his goals also include a stint on reality television, specifically Big Brother, as he embraces challenges of every kind. With the support of his agency, Vito Cisternino’s VHE20, Antonio is determined to seize new opportunities and write the next chapter of his story, one project at a time.
A Star in the Making
Antonio Paolo Cisternino’s journey proves that cinema is not just about performance but about transformation. From a teenager on set to standing alongside legendary actors, he has embraced every step with passion and authenticity. His story is one of resilience, ambition, and a vision for a future where film is not just entertainment but a way to connect, inspire, and endure
