Experience Italy at the 2015 Lavazza Italian Film Festival
The World Loves Melbourne was invited to the 2015 Lavazza Italian Film Festival and it was so much fun!
One of the best things about Melbourne is the rich diversity of culture. You don’t have to travel far to experience authentic cuisine from anywhere in the world. One country that has one of the most passionate, friendly and generous people is Italy. I’ve (Randie) found that whenever I’m around Italians there is always good food, good wine, good company which equals good times!
Attending the opening night of the 16th Lavazza Italian Film Festival earlier this week was no exception. The World Loves Melbourne was invited to kick of the festival and watch the critically acclaimed comedy God Willing. If this film was any indicator of what to expect over the next three weeks then I’d give at 10 out of 10. The film was hilarious and thought-provoking as it explored the journey of an atheist surgeon (Tommaso) dealing with the shock of his son announcing that he wants to become a priest. A string of hilarious situations ensues as Tommaso goes undercover to investigate and bring down the charismatic priest.
There are a total of 32 brilliant Italian films to discover from romantic sagas to crime thrillers and riveting dramas including the closing night classic, The Conformist (Il Conformista). The Academy Award nominated film returns under director Bernardo Bertolucci and is a take on Alberto Moravia’s novel about an upper-class follower of Mussolini.
Like any Italian event, the food was spectacular and it seemed never ending! Everyone was treated to endless glasses of Mitchelton Cuvée NV, freshly sliced prosciutto, perfectly aged parmesan, hand-tossed pizza, and espresso martinis and Connoisseur ice cream bars. This was in addition to the movie snack packs filled with Italian sandwiches, popcorn, olives and biscotto prepared by DOC Gastronomia Italiana. It was truly a standout Italian culinary experience.
The Lavazza Italian Film Festival runs until 16 October at select theatres in Melbourne. Visit italianfilmfestival.com.au for the full film list, schedule and to purchase tickets.
The photos credited to jimleephoto.com