Coming into its 18th year, the Lavazza Italian Film Festival continues to be one of the highlights on Australia’s arts and culture calendar. The annual affair is returning to its spiritual home at Palace Cinemas, cementing its status as an independent affair that celebrates not only contemporary Italian cinema but also brings cherished classics to the big screen. This year sees screen siren and legit Italian-born legend Greta Scacchi coming on board as the festival ambassador, who will be appearing at Palace Barracks on Thursday September 21 for a Q&A screening of Tenderness (in which she stars).
The festival is overflowing with amazing titles that span across many genres and decades, along with a host of special events to enhance the experience. Tickets to the opening night screening of Golden Globe-winning Let Yourself Go! and its accompanying after-party are moving fast, with the option of a reception with drinks and antipasti or an all-in gala catered by Bucci. Another one to watch is the Dalida screening – Lisa Azuelo’s glitzy biopic will be preceded by a Limoncello di Capri cocktail on arrival and live music. Settle in for more cocktails and live tunes at the premiere of It’s All About Karma, and don’t forget the closing night heartstring-tugger of Life is Beautiful – there will be Aperol spritz, Stella Artois and Connoisseur gourmet ice-cream on hand to soothe the feels.
Feeling the love? You can browse the full program and pick up tickets to sessions through the official Lavazza Italian Film Festival website.