Westchester County is a hub for film lovers. Not only is it home to a number of independent movie houses, but it’s also a top spot for filming noteworthy movies and TV shows. This month, local film aficionados have one more reason to get excited in the 914. Taking place over the weekend of April 25-27, the Westchester Italian Film Festival will be showcasing cinematic delights with Italian flair.
Organized by The Picture House Regional Film Center, which boasts locations in both Bronxville and Pelham, the Westchester Italian Film Festival is the result of a special partnership with the Italian American Forum. During the three-day program, attendees can expect to see a mix of classic and newer Italian films, as well as director Q&As. There will also be a handful of special events, such as an adult education class on the spaghetti western genre led by Spencer Sapienza, The Picture House’s film education director.
“We’re thrilled to partner once again with the Italian American Forum to bring the Westchester Italian Film Festival to life,” shares Clayton Bushong, The Picture House’s executive director. “This year’s festival is a celebration of Italian cinema and culture, with a fantastic lineup of new films, timeless classics, and engaging events.”
The weekend kicks off on a strong note, with opening night at The Picture House Bronxville set to feature a dessert reception and tribute to Chazz Palminteri, including a special screening of his new film A Bronx Tale: One Man Show. Attendees can sample sweet bites from the cannoli bar while sipping complimentary Italian wine and prosecco. Throughout the weekend, Italian wine and beer will be available for purchase as well.
Following the opening night, the festival leans into a varied lineup of everything from documentaries to political dramas. Attendees can catch the Westchester premiere of The Italians, followed by a Q&A with filmmaker Michelle Danner. For those who love spaghetti westerns, an exploration of the genre by The Picture House director of film education Spencer Sapienza pairs well with a screening of A Fistful of Dollars. History enthusiasts, meanwhile, won’t want to miss the showing of Ginger and Fred, with an accompanying discussing by film critic and historian Joe Neumaier.
And there’s more! A screening of Trudie Styler’s award-winning documentary Posso Entrare? An Ode to Naples; Tutti in Scena digs into the history of Italian theater in New York City. It’s accompanied by a Q&A with filmmaker Laura Caparrotti. On the drama side, two films are bound to capture audience attention. The first, The Final Covenant of Vito Marcantonio, is a gripping political drama that’s paired with a post-film Q&A by screenwriter and actor Roberto Ragone. The second, Vermiglio, is a 2024 Italian flick that dives into World War II.
“The Italian American Forum is proud to support The Picture House Regional Film Center’s annual Westchester Italian Film Festival and its efforts to provide a culturally enriched weekend of Italian films, documentaries, thought-provoking Q&A sessions, and adult programs,” notes Anna Malafronte, the executive director of the Italian American Forum.
Ahead of the festival, anyone interested can purchase tickets for individual screenings on The Picture House’s website. Screenings take place at both locations.
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