Some of Italian Cinema’s most influencial names came out to support the third annual Italian Contemporary Film Festival tonight at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. Following the Festival’s Opening Night Gala Presentation of The Best Offer, starring Geoffrey Rush, Jim Sturgess and Donald Sutherland, the likes of Director Paolo Genovese, DJ Tony Monaco, Producer Andrea Iervolino, Actress Vittoria Puccini, Actor Nick Mancuso, Philanthropist/Socialite Lady Monika Bacardi (yes, THAT Bacardi) and American Star Stephen Baldwin graced the Red Carpet. The elite room of guests clinked champagne flutes, toasting the momentous occasion, enjoying a sumptuous catered Buffet Dinner, before dancing the night away to some soulful grooves.
It was announced this evening that Iervolino and Bacardi would be launching together AMBI Canada, the latter serving as Honourary President for the Canadian branch of the Film Distribution Company which focuses on backing high-budget international Films with Hollywood names.
Arriving fashionably late after several delays with his New York flight, anticipation grew rampant for a dapper Baldwin – in purple pinstripes over pink – and he did not disappoint, making the rounds with Guests, with an uncanny ability of remembering names. In fact, he came over to say “hi” to my friend Dawn and I, striking-up a conversation, nick-naming us “The Beauty (Dawn), The Bodyguard (me), The Business (his Buddy) and THE BALDWIN“! Charmer. He is scheduled early tomorrow to do the Morning Show circuit.
The Festival, which launched tonight, runs across Toronto, Vaughan, Hamilton, Montreal and Quebec City through June 20, 2014. Danny Glover, in town filming currently, also will lend his vote of confidence, making an appearance in support of AIC and AMBI Canada‘s 2047 Sights of Death (Baldwin also stars) which has its World Premiere tonight at the Festival.
For more details on the 2014 Italian Contemporary Film International, visit here.
(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)
For advertising opportunites please contact mrwill@mrwillwong.com