Three acclaimed films free on RaiPlay this week

RaiPlay, the free streaming service run by Italy's public broadcaster Rai, is currently offering three acclaimed films to viewers at no charge this week. The report describing the offer highlights the films as particularly praised, encouraging audiences not to miss the limited-time availability.

While this promotion has generated positive attention, Rai is simultaneously facing significant backlash over a separate decision affecting its programming lineup. Rai Scuola, a channel long associated with educational content, is set to close and be replaced by a new channel named Italiana.

The move has triggered strong opposition from viewers and advocates of public broadcasting. Numerous petitions have been launched, calling on Rai to reconsider its plans. Petitions in this context are formal collective appeals, often gathering many signatures, intended to pressure decision-makers into changing course.

Opponents of the closure describe Rai Scuola as a pillar of Italy's public service broadcasting system, arguing that the channel has played an important role in providing accessible educational content to the public. They warn that its replacement by Italiana could weaken this mission, though the summary does not detail what content Italiana itself will offer.

The protests surrounding Rai Scuola's closure reflect broader concerns about the direction of public broadcasting in Italy, even as RaiPlay continues to promote its free film offerings as a highlight of its service this week. It remains unclear from the available information whether Rai will respond to the criticism or proceed with its plans as announced.