By Valerie Milano
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 2/20/25 – Hollywood and Italian cinema continue to blend seamlessly at the 10th edition of Filming Italy Los Angeles, currently taking place at the Directors Guild of America. The festival, helmed by Tiziana Rocca, has become a key platform for celebrating international storytelling and fostering cultural exchange between Italy and the U.S.
The second day of the festival brought a wave of excitement with the presence of Michele Placido and Fabrizio Bentivoglio, who introduced their latest project, Eterno Visionary. The film delves into the life and work of Nobel Prize-winning writer Luigi Pirandello, offering an in-depth look at the literary giant’s journey. Placido and Bentivoglio also engaged with audiences at the Italian Cultural Institute in Los Angeles, adding an intimate touch to the festival’s programming.
The festival’s prestigious guest list continues to impress. Among the notable names making an appearance are Alfre Woodard, known for her powerful performances, and Alessandro Nivola, set to make waves in the upcoming Kraven the Hunter.
A Red Carpet Full of Hollywood Icons
Opening night set the bar high, with Zoe Saldana and husband Marco Perego, Alec Baldwin, and director Gabriele Muccino gracing the red carpet. The festival’s Women in Power Award will be presented to Da’Vine Joy Randolph, fresh off her Oscar-winning performance in The Holdovers.
Other big names being honored include Carlo Diehz (Conclave), Billy Zane (Waltzing with Brando), and legendary producer Tarak Ben Ammar for his outstanding contributions to cinema. Rising stars are also in the spotlight, with Abigail Cohen receiving the Rising Star Award, while Elena Kampouris (Here Now) and festival godmother Diana Del Bufalo will also be celebrated.
A Decade of Filming Italy Los Angeles
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the festival continues to showcase cinematic excellence, having welcomed stars like Giancarlo Giannini, Rosario Dawson, Monica Bellucci, Oliver Stone, and Jeremy Renner over the years. Festival president Dolph Lundgren brings his signature action-star charm to the event, while this year’s ambassador, Isabella Ferrari, adds a touch of Italian elegance.
Founder Tiziana Rocca, one of the few female film festival directors globally, remains committed to promoting diversity and elevating women in the film industry. Under her leadership, Filming Italy Los Angeles has facilitated global distribution opportunities for filmmakers and even secured Walk of Fame stars for Giancarlo Giannini and Gina Lollobrigida.
With a stellar lineup, engaging discussions, and industry accolades, Filming Italy Los Angeles continues to cement itself as a must-attend festival for cinephiles and industry professionals alike.
