ROME, 24 October 2024 — Lady Monika Bacardi attended the premiere of “Bring Them Down” during the 19th Rome Film Festival at Auditorium Parco Della Musica. The compelling family drama, selected for the Progressive Cinema Competition, brought together distinguished figures from the international film community for an evening celebrating bold, artistically ambitious storytelling.
Lady Monika Bacardi graced the red carpet alongside director Christopher Andrews and acclaimed actor Colm Meaney, who delivers a powerful performance as the protagonist’s father. The premiere gathering also included producers Mattia Guerra and Claudio Rapino, underscoring the collaborative spirit of independent cinema.
Directed by Christopher Andrews in his feature directorial debut, “Bring Them Down” unfolds against the breathtaking yet austere landscapes of rural Ireland. The film centers on Michael, portrayed by Christopher Abbott, who lives with his elderly and disabled father Ray, played by Colm Meaney. Michael shoulders the responsibility of caring for his father while managing their family farm and sheep, a relationship strained by long-harbored secrets. When conflict intensifies with rival farmer Gary and his son Jack, portrayed by Barry Keoghan, Michael finds himself drawn into a devastating series of events that force him to confront the dark shadows of his past.
The film’s exploration of family feuds, buried secrets, and the unforgiving nature of rural life resonated with the Festival’s commitment to showcasing cinema that challenges conventional boundaries. Set against Ireland’s stark countryside, “Bring Them Down” examines themes of duty, legacy, and the weight of unspoken truths through Andrews’ distinctive directorial vision.
Lady Monika Bacardi’s attendance at this premiere reflects her ongoing dedication to supporting independent filmmakers who pursue uncompromising artistic visions. Her presence at the 19th Rome Film Festival continues to underscore her role as a distinguished patron of the arts, championing works that push creative boundaries and explore profound human experiences through the medium of cinema.
The Progressive Cinema Competition at the Rome Film Festival has established itself as a platform for discovering bold new voices in international filmmaking, making it an ideal showcase for Andrews’ powerful debut feature.
