LAVAZZA ITALIAN FILM FESTIVAL 2015
A touch of Italy comes to Sydney with the arrival of the 16th Lavazza Italian Film Festival, which will be presenting a programme of the finest and most exhilarating films produced in Italy.
Italian cinema has struggled, but in recent years there has been a remarkable resurgence, with 200 films including co-productions, produced in Italy in 2014.
Festival director Elysia Zeccola Hill says Australian audiences should be anticipating this Italian film festival.
“Aussies love Italy, the beauty of the language and the culture which reflects in these films. Like most European films you don’t know where these Italian films are going–the unpredictability fascinates me,” said Hill.
“Audiences can enjoy a taste of Italy by choosing from an exciting line-up, with 30 Australian premieres featuring Italy’s brightest and best talent. This selection presents the newest and most highly awarded Italian films hand-picked from the world’s most prestigious festivals,” she explained.
Italian box office hit God Willing opens the festival, an engaging and hilarious comedy which focuses on what follows when a respected surgeon’s son announces he wants to enter the priesthood. An Italian atmosphere is created for the opening night party which includes Italian beverages, food and entertainment.
Italo is the extraordinary story centering on the friendship between a lonely boy and a stray dog called Italo, in a town where dogs have been banned. Based on true events, this is a charming and heartfelt film for the entire family.
“Black Souls is a multi-award winning Godfather-esque film – a gritty, dark tale of crime, almost Greek tragedy style, which comes highly recommended,” concluded Hill. (MMo)
Sept 15 – Oct 11. Palace Norton St & Palace Verona, Chauvel Cinema. $19.50 – $65 (Opening Night Gala). Tickets + Info: italianfilmfestival.com.au
