Aug. 21 – Italian cinema has never been more present in Canada: 7 films are participating in the Toronto IFF from Sept. 5-15. With three world premieres, this year’s edition will go down in history as one of Italy’s most successfull years regardless of the number of awards won. “Anni Felici” by Daniele Luchetti will go on screen for the first time in the Special Presentation section, where “L’Intrepido” by Gianni Amelio and “La grande bellezza” by Paolo Sorrentino will also be screened. The two other premieres are dedicated t emerging directors, demonstrating the great attention and sensibility demonstrated by Piers Handling, president of the TIFF, towards Italian cinema. Indeed, Fabio Mollo’s first film, “Il sud è niente”, set on the Messina Strait, where love and hope meet, will go on screen at the TIFF. Produced by B24 Film, the movie stars Vinicio Marchioni and Valentina Lodovini, while the other newcomer is produced by Good Films. “Border” by Alessio Cremonini is inspired by the true story of two Syrian sister that, to survive the battle between the Pro-Assad and Rebel Forces, are forced to flee the country and seek refuge in Turkey. Two other movies complete the Italian presence at the Festival, “Stop the Pounding Heart” by Roberto Minervini, already presented in Cannes and in Venice, and “Che strano chiamarsi Federico” by Ettore Scola, that will be screened in Masters section. The TIFF is one of the most important festivals in terms of industry presence from around the workd. The Italian participation, as well as the artistic direction, were organized by the Istituto Luce Cinecittà.
