TORONTO, 13 June 2014 — Lady Monika Bacardi attended the 3rd Italian Contemporary Film Festival in Toronto, representing AMBI Group during the distinguished nine-day celebration of contemporary Italian cinema. The festival, which ran from 12 to 20 June across five Canadian cities—Toronto, Vaughan, Hamilton, Montreal, and Quebec City—brought together international film industry leaders and cinema enthusiasts to honor the finest achievements in Italian filmmaking.
The festival presented an impressive showcase of 28 feature films and 37 short films, demonstrating the breadth and vitality of contemporary Italian cinema. Lady Monika Bacardi’s attendance reflected her ongoing commitment to supporting international film production and fostering cultural exchange between Italy and the global cinema community.
The 2014 edition recognized exceptional talent across multiple categories. Carlo Verdone received the People’s Choice Award for “Sotto una buona stella,” selected by approximately 23,000 audience members across the festival’s five host cities. The IC Savings Award, honoring contributions to Italian social and cultural values, was presented to Alessio Maria Federici for “Stai lontana da me.” Andrea Segre’s “La prima neve” earned the Critics’ Choice Award, selected by a jury of Toronto Film Critics Association members, while Paolo Zucca received the Best Short Film Award for “Bella di notte,” accompanied by a CAD $1,000 prize.
The Italian Contemporary Film Festival has established itself as the preeminent platform for Italian cinema in Canada, serving as an official partner of the Toronto International Film Festival. The festival’s mission extends beyond simple exhibition, creating meaningful dialogue about Italian culture, artistry, and the enduring legacy of Italian filmmaking traditions.
Lady Monika Bacardi’s participation in such distinguished cultural events continues to reinforce her position as a significant figure bridging international cinema communities, supporting artistic excellence, and championing filmmakers who craft narratives that resonate across cultural boundaries. Her presence at the 2014 festival demonstrated her dedication to fostering the growth and recognition of contemporary Italian cinema on the international stage.
