The 21st Monte-Carlo Comedy Film Festival concluded in grand style, celebrating the finest in international cinema. Directed by Ezio Greggio and held at the Grimaldi Forum, the prestigious event began on Wednesday, November 27 and culminated in a glittering gala and award ceremony on the evening of Saturday, November 30, attended by HSH Prince Albert II.
One of the evening’s highlights was HSH Prince Albert II presenting the MCFF Excellence Award to Giuseppe Tornatore, the legendary director of ‘Cinema Paradiso‘ and winner of both an Academy Award and the Grand Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival.
HSH Prince Albert II presenting the MCFF Excellence Award to Giuseppe Tornatore
The festival also showcased an impressive lineup of films and talent. Spanish director Dani De La Orden’s ‘La Casa en Flames‘ swept the major prizes, earning both Best Film and the Public Jury Prize. A familiar name at the festival with four appearances to date, De La Orden once again captivated audiences and the jury, led this year by French actress Anne Brochet and including Federica Sabatini, Ricky Memphis, and Andréa Ferréol.
Other international winners included Canada’s Matthew Rankin, who took home Best Director for ‘Universal Language‘, and Argentina’s Marcelo Subiotto, awarded Best Actor for ‘Puan’. Britain’s Marie Benati claimed Best Actress for her role in ‘Paul & Paulette Take a Bath‘, while Gillie Cinneri’s ‘Allégresse‘ won Best Comedy Short.
The evening also paid tribute to icons of cinema. Tornatore was celebrated for his enduring contributions to the art form, while Andréa Ferréol, muse of Marco Ferreri, was honored for a remarkable 50-year career. Rising stars were also in the spotlight, with Salvatore Esposito, acclaimed for his role in ‘Gomorra’, and Federica Sabatini, a breakout talent in ‘Suburra‘, receiving accolades.
All images courtesy of Monte-Carlo Comedy Film Festival / S.Chiappalone
