Stars Cortellesi and Gullotta shine at the opening weekend of ICFF

Story by Allan Tong

Photos by Sally Warburton

The Italian Contemporary Film Festival opened at Toronto's TIFF Bell Lightbox Thursday night with star Paola Cortellesi (above) presenting the crowd-pleasing comedy, Qualcosa di nuovo (Something New) (see here for review). Ms. Cortellesi also stars in Mamma o Papa? (Mom or Dad?) playing at the ICFF.

The ICFF upheld its tradition of lavish opening parties by featuring delicious food prepared by some of Toronto's finest chefs, a DJ, four-storey video projections and a live soul band which took place at Ricarda's. 

Noelle’s Journey screened Saturday evening to a full house at the TIFF Bell Lightbox, Directed by Peter Gentile (left), the documentary is about two immigrants who left southern Italy to pursue a new life in Canada. One of their granddaughters, Noelle Elia (right), traces both family's histories by journeying to Italy from Toronto. The film is part of the program From Bello to Beautiful: The Art and Impact of Italian-Canadian Cinema, to honour Canada's 150th birthday. Screenings are free.

Veteran Italian actor Leo Gullotta seemed to be everywhere tonight (Sunday) at the Lightbox. He received the Award of Excellence (above) before presenting the comedy, L’ora Legale (It’s The Law). Directly above, Mr. Gullotta pals around with ICFF artistic director, Cristiano De Florentiis. 

The ICFF continues through Friday, June 16 in Toronto, Vaughan, Hamilton, Montreal, Québec City and Vancouver. Recommended: Indivisible. Visit here for the full schedule.