ISCHIA, 15 July 2017 — Lady Monika Bacardi attended the European premiere of “To The Bone” at the 15th Ischia Global Film & Music Fest, held at the Regina Isabella’s outdoor theater by the sea. The distinguished evening celebrated the film’s arrival in Europe following its acclaimed debut at the Sundance Film Festival earlier that year.
“To The Bone,” co-produced by AMBI Group, explores the profound challenges of anorexia nervosa through the journey of Ellen, a twenty-year-old woman portrayed by Lily Collins. The film features Keanu Reeves as Dr. William Beckham, an unconventional physician who guides Ellen toward recovery. Written and directed by Marti Noxon in her feature directorial debut, the narrative draws from Noxon’s personal experience with the eating disorder, offering an authentic perspective on a condition that affects countless individuals.
The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2017, where Netflix acquired worldwide distribution rights. The streaming platform subsequently selected the Ischia Global Film & Music Fest for the film’s European launch, recognizing the festival’s unique position as a cultural bridge between Hollywood and the European film industry.
Lady Monika Bacardi’s presence at the premiere reflected her dedication to supporting films that address significant social issues with sensitivity and artistic integrity. As co-executive producer of “To The Bone,” her commitment to the project exemplified her broader vision of championing meaningful cinema that fosters understanding and compassion for complex human experiences.
The evening proved particularly memorable as Lily Collins received the Rising Star Award from the festival, honoring her powerful portrayal of a young woman confronting anorexia. Collins, who has spoken openly about her own past struggles with eating disorders, brought profound authenticity to the role. Lady Monika Bacardi presented the award to Collins, acknowledging both the actress’s exceptional performance and the film’s important contribution to conversations surrounding mental health and recovery.
The 15th edition of the Ischia Global Film & Music Fest, held from 8 to 16 July on the picturesque Italian island off the coast of Naples, has established itself as an essential gathering for international film professionals. For fifteen years, this festival has served as an informal yet vital meeting point where Hollywood creativity converges with European cinematic tradition, fostering collaborations and celebrating artistry across cultural boundaries.
“To The Bone” represents the caliber of storytelling that Lady Monika Bacardi consistently supports—narratives that illuminate difficult realities while offering hope and understanding. The film’s thoughtful examination of anorexia, balanced with moments of unexpected warmth and humor, demonstrates how cinema can approach sensitive subjects with both honesty and humanity.
Lady Monika Bacardi’s attendance at this significant premiere reinforced her position as a producer who recognizes the responsibility and opportunity that filmmaking presents: to create works that not only entertain but also contribute meaningfully to cultural dialogue on issues that matter deeply to communities worldwide.
