(July 6, 2016) Two Italians heading a film festival in the Big Apple. “Greenwich Village Film Festival” was established two years ago thanks to the New York based director from Venice Antonio Padovan and actress from Marche Alessia Gatti. After last year’s festival’s success, Padovan and Gatti are in the midst of setting up this year’s festival on October 24,25 and 26 in New York’s lower east side, a neighbourhood that has always been a haven for artists, writers and musicians. Alessia Gatti comments: “It is a young festival; this is only its second edition but it shows that it is taking important steps. We have received a lot of appreciation and recognition. This project is bringing us joy and satisfaction. We are very enthusiastic”. She goes on to explain that “last year’s festival was held at The Players Theatre in the West Village. 15 short films were selected among the 80 films submitted from all over the world. This year, thanks to two film producers in the West Village (Michael Anastasio and Richard Weigle) the Greenwich Film Festival will be divided into three different events in the iconic Greenwich House Music School”. The films talk about a fascinating and evocative world: narrow, contorted and curved streets, characteristic views, trees that are well looked after, cafes, shops, restaurants and many venues to go and listen to good music, all surrounding by the characteristic low red brick buildings: The West Village. In the heart of New York City in lower Manhattan south of 14th street. The winner for “Best short film” of the 2015 Greenwich Village Film Festival was Patrick Vollrath who was also nominated for at the 2016 Oscars. “It is an achievement for us too” commented Gatti who emigrated to New York City five years ago from Fano. On this year’s edition of the Festival she adds: “We will be having an opening party with special guests such as the actor and Village resident Bill Sage (American Psycho and Precious) and an after party at 49 Grove street, a renowned Manhattan club”. Film, passion and a touch of ‘italianness’. Success is guaranteed. (PO/Gil)
