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Film Festivals

When in Rome, Don't Invite Hollywood

May 8, 2008 at 2:00 PM | 0 Comments

Could Clooney, Leo, and the rest of Hollywood's Rat Pack be turned away at this year's Rome Film Fest? If the city's newly elected right-wing mayor has anything to say about it, yes. Gianni Alemanno thinks inviting "a catwalk of Hollywood stars" is the wrong move, since Romans aren't interested in our image-driven industry. Italians not concerned with image? Riiiight.

Directors from around the world have released statements in support of an internationally flavored festival, cautioning that removing Hollywood would be a major momentum stall for the two-year-old event, which has already achieved major standing in the festival world.

It's another five months till the festival kick-off on October 21, so who knows where this might lead. Considering Italy's ever-changing politics, Rome may have a new mayor by then and this can all be forgotten. Or maybe everyone will just head to Venice instead.

Related Stories:
· Directors back Rome Film Fest [Variety]
· Rome Film Fest [Official Site]
· Film Festival Travel coverage [Jaunted]

[Photo: Daylife]