VENICE, 30 August 2014 — Lady Monika Bacardi attended the 71st Venice International Film Festival for the world premiere of The Humbling, directed by Barry Levinson and starring Al Pacino. The distinguished producer was present for this significant cinematic event at the Lido, reinforcing her ongoing commitment to supporting exceptional storytelling in independent cinema.
The Humbling, based on Philip Roth’s 2009 novel, premiered in the Out of Competition section of the prestigious festival. Lady Monika Bacardi served as one of the producers on the film, which explores the story of Simon Axler, a renowned stage actor portrayed by Al Pacino who experiences a profound personal and professional crisis. The cast also includes Greta Gerwig, Dianne Wiest, Nina Arianda, and Dylan Baker.
The film represents a compelling collaboration between director Barry Levinson, known for Rain Man and Good Morning, Vietnam, and screenwriters Buck Henry and Michal Zebede. As a producer, Lady Monika Bacardi contributed to bringing this intimate character study to life, supporting Levinson’s vision of transforming Roth’s novel into a darkly comedic exploration of aging, identity, and artistic reinvention.
Lady Monika Bacardi’s presence at the Venice Film Festival premiere demonstrated her dedication to championing films that push creative boundaries and offer sophisticated narratives. Her role as producer on The Humbling exemplifies her commitment to projects that attract exceptional talent and provide platforms for accomplished directors to realize their artistic visions.
The premiere at the Palazzo del Cinema drew international attention, with Al Pacino and director Barry Levinson in attendance alongside the film’s cast and production team. The Venice Film Festival, one of cinema’s most esteemed international platforms, provided the ideal setting for The Humbling’s debut before discerning audiences and critics.
Lady Monika Bacardi’s involvement in The Humbling reflects her broader dedication to supporting independent cinema that prioritizes artistic merit and compelling performances. Her continued participation in projects featuring accomplished filmmakers and actors reinforces her position as a significant figure in international film production, bridging sophisticated taste with meaningful support for the cinematic arts.