By Molly Magennis
An exciting new film festival is coming to Hobsons Bay, thanks to a collaboration with the Williamstown Italian Social Club and the Sun Theatre.
The Williamstown Italian Film Festival will kick off on Saturday, April 30 at the former New Empress Theatre (now the Williamstown Italian Social Club).
The festival will run across three sessions, with the opening night featuring a screening of The Godfather (1972) to celebrate the iconic film’s 50th anniversary.
Alongside this, attendees will be treated to a serving of hot pasta, some delicious wine and the film’s theme played live on strings.
May 22 will feature a matinee showing of the Italian Job (1969) and a night screening ‘Call Me By Your Name’ starring Timothee Chalamet.
The final session on June 5 includes Cinema Paradiso (1988) followed up in the evening by The Great Beauty (2013).
A host of activities will also be available, such as a Sunday afternoon Bocce tournament, cocktail masterclasses and kid-friendly matinee screenings.
Festival director Matt Vitiello said he wanted to “reignite the love of cinema in Williamstown” by bringing the old New Empress Theatre back to life, as well as showcase the municipalities Italian culture.
“We knew the history of the New Empress Theatre for years, it wasn’t until we had some small conversations with Mike [from the Sun Theatre] from a production point of view, did we discover the possibilities of reinvigorating the venue into its former glory,” he said.
“When a country like Australia has such a diverse and deep base of cultural backgrounds, celebrating and experiencing other communities can make you a great citizen.
“The Williamstown Italian Social Club is a storied community, passed down through generations, wanting to share their Adriatic hospitality with the rest of Melbourne.”
Italian food and drinks are available at all sessions on the day or for pre-order.
Details and tickets can found at sunwilliamstown.com.au/wiff/.
