FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Lavazza IncluCity Reveals its Official Lineup, Events, and a Spotlight on Toronto’s Film Legacy
A LEGEND UNDER THE STARS: SUSAN SARANDON JOINS THE 14TH ICFF
Canada’s Leading Multicultural Festival returns to the Distillery District with 25 days of international film screenings, concerts and food & wine activations.
TORONTO, Ontario, Wednesday, May 28, 2025 – The ICFF and Lavazza IncluCity Festival are proud to unveil the full program for this year’s 14th edition and to announce the Guest of Honour: Academy Award-winning actress Susan Sarandon.
Kicking off on June 27 and running through July 20, the festival promises another show-stopping edition in the vibrant, Distillery Historic District, featuring an unmissable lineup of events, screenings, concerts, panel discussions, and more — all accompanied by everyone’s favourite aperitivo; tasting experiences on the iconic festival couches.
ICFF’s Opening Night, features the North American Premiere of Napoli – New York (Italy) by Academy Award-winning director Gabriele Salvatores, followed by an exclusive opening party at the Illuminarium, where the glamour of golden-age Italian cinema meets cutting-edge visual storytelling.
The Lavazza IncluCity Opening Night presents the Canadian Premiere of Juliet and Romeo by Timothy Scott Bogart — a modern musical reimagining of the iconic love story, featuring a pop-driven soundtrack. The director, producers, and lead cast will be in attendance, making for a night of unforgettable performances both on and off screen.
Following a remarkable season of accomplishments — including ICFF’s 2024 Closing Gala being named Best Event at the Canadian Event Awards — the festival is set to elevate its game once again with a spectacular return to the Hearn for its grand finale. This year, the presence of Hollywood powerhouse Susan Sarandon — the globally-acclaimed actress celebrated for her unforgettable roles in Thelma & Louise, Dead Man Walking, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show — sets the tone for a festival defined by cinematic prestige and star power.
In line with its ongoing commitment to being a stand-out city event, ICFF is introducing a new initiative: Toronto Screens Toronto. This program celebrates the city not only as a film location but as a cinematic protagonist in its own right. The series will also pay tribute to Paul Bronfman, the late founder of William F. White and Pinewood Toronto Studios, whose legacy helped shape Toronto into a world-class production hub. Highlights include the 15th anniversary screening of Scott Pilgrim vs. the World by Edgar Wright, What If by Michael Dowse, and The Darkest Miriam by Naomi Jaye.
“In a year that has tested festivals nationwide, I’m proud of the bold program we’re launching today,” said Cristiano de Florentiis, Co-founder and Artistic Director of ICFF. “With all-day public concerts at the Distillery District, over 30 premieres, and a spectacular Closing Gala at the Hearn featuring one of Hollywood’s elite, this is without a doubt our most ambitious edition yet.”
One of this year’s main themes is music, which serves as the festival’s fil rouge for many special events. From daily public concerts part of the “TO The Beat” series, to the triumphant return of Opera Night and a new Serata celebrating contemporary Italian pop, ICFF will shake up the site with rhythm and emotion throughout its 25 days.
In the spirit of this theme, ICFF is proud to welcome the addition of several films to the program that dedicate themselves to music in cinema – from the musical drama Juliet & Romeo, the French comedy The Marching Band, the heartfelt UK-Irish drama The Ballad of Wallis Island, the inspiring German music documentary and concert film Hans Zimmer & Friends, the Cuban coming-of-age feature Los Frikis, and the renowned cult-favourite Canadian title Scott Pilgrim vs. The World – these films truly showcase the spirit of music through the catalyst of film.
Each day of the festival is sure to be curated and a unique experience — with different communities, guests, food, and entertainment — collectively creating a heartfelt love letter to multicultural cinema, music and entertainment.
For its 14th edition, ICFF is honoured to welcome celebrated Italian filmmakers Antonio and Marco Manetti (the Manetti Bros) in partnership with Cinecittà. As part of Industry Days, they will lead a panel titled Ink to Action: Comic Characters on Screen, focused on adapting graphic novels for film, centered around their feature Diabolik: Who Are You?. Their latest film U.S. Palmese (North American Premiere) and the Canadian Premiere of Love and Bullets will also screen during the festival.
The ICFF Architettura & Design program remains a key pillar of the festival. This year, in partnership with Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), the program welcomes internationally acclaimed architect Mario Cucinella. His visit includes a keynote presentation at Canadian Stage (July 8), and the first-ever Canadian exhibition by Mario Cucinella Architects (MCA) at TMU (July 9). ICFF will also host the International Premiere of Nuvola: An Open Project for the City, a documentary on the Lavazza headquarters in Turin, directed by Francesca Molteni, who will be in attendance.
The festival also returns with the third edition of The Dark Side, its curated horror program. Held under moody red lights, the series will feature chilling classics like the 50th anniversary screening of Profondo Rosso (Italy) and contemporary thrillers such as The Weekend (Nigeria) and Borderline (USA).
The festival will close its Italian lineup with the Canadian Premiere of Diamonds by Ferzan Özpetek, winner of the David of the Audience at the 2025 David di Donatello Awards, and will wrap up its international programming with a special celebration of the Filipino community through a dedicated day of concerts, cultural activities, and the Canadian Premiere of Song of the Fireflies.
LAVAZZA INCLUCITY FESTIVAL 2025 LINEUP
The Ballad of Wallis Island｜James Griffiths｜UK｜Special Presentation
Charles lives alone on the remote Wallis Island, where he dreams of reuniting with his favourite band, McGwyer Mortimer. He invites frontman Herb McGwyer, unaware that Nell, Herb’s ex-girlfriend, will be arriving with her new husband. With a storm cutting off escape from the island, Charles scrambles to salvage his dreams before it all falls apart.
The Blue Avalanche (La Valanga Azzurra)｜Giovanni Veronesi｜Italy｜Special Presentation
The Italian national Alpine ski team of the 1970s quickly became an unstoppable force. The film delves into the intense rivalries, triumphs, and sacrifices that forged their invincibility. Through never-before-heard testimonies from the athletes themselves, it offers a profoundly personal and thrilling account of their journey.
The Body (Il Corpo)｜Vincenzo Alfieri｜Italy｜International Premiere
When wealthy and charismatic entrepreneur Rebecca Zuin dies of an alleged heart attack, suspicion turns to shock when her body mysteriously vanishes from the morgue, and a night watchman fleeing the scene is fatally run over. As a case develops, it seems as though everyone in Rebecca’s inner circle is suspect, especially her husband.
Borderline｜Jimmy Warden｜USA｜Festival Premiere
Paul Duerson, a hopelessly romantic sociopath, escapes from a mental institution, fixated on pop superstar Sofia, whom he believes is his destined love. He will stop at nothing to win her affection, even if it means terrorizing her in her own home. Trapped in a surreal nightmare, Sofia must navigate the blurred lines between reality and madness.
Canadian Bacon｜Michael Moore｜Canada, USA｜Special Presentation
In a desperate bid to boost his plummeting approval ratings, the U.S. President is convinced to spark a cold war—hey, what about Canada, eh?! The government rolls out a propaganda campaign, painting their northern neighbour as a looming threat. Taking the message a bit too seriously, an overenthusiastic Niagara Falls sheriff leads a misguided charge to expose the so-called threat.
The Children of Yesterday’s Love (Askin Dünkü Çocuklari)｜Levent Onan｜Turkish International Premiere
This film follows Arif, a reclusive man shaped by lost love, whose life is changed when he bonds with Nodiko, a spirited boy from Georgia. Spanning decades, the film explores love, loss, and healing through a cross-generational connection filled with warmth, humor, and emotional depth.
Dangerous Game (Gioco Pericoloso)｜Lucio pellegrini｜Italy｜Canadian Premiere
In Rome’s glittering art world, famed art critic Carlo invites the mysterious artist Peter into his seaside villa—unaware of his dark past with renowned dancer and Carlo’s partner, Giada. As secrets unravel and ambitions collide, a deadly game of seduction and manipulation begins. In this world, art isn’t just competitive—it’s dangerous, and no one escapes untouched.
Darkest Miriam｜Naomi Jaye｜Canada｜Special Presentation
Miriam works at a downtown public library in her own ordered, emotionally suspended world—that is, until a burgeoning love affair coincides with the arrival of a series of oddly threatening letters. As Miriam navigates the thrills of new romance and the unease of these mysterious messages, her carefully constructed existence begins to crack open.
Decoded (解密, Jie Mi)｜Chen Sicheng｜China｜Festival Premiere
During the global turmoil of the 1940s, deciphering enemy communication codes quickly became critical. Rong Jinzhen, a reclusive mathematical prodigy, showed extraordinary talent from a young age. Thrust from isolation into a high-stakes world of surveillance and psychological warfare, Rong is forced to confront the limits of his mind and the weight of his role.
Deep Red (Profondo Rosso)｜Dario Argento｜Italy｜Special Anniversary Presentation
After witnessing a violent murder, pianist Marcus Daly becomes determined to find the killer. Teaming up with a curious reporter, he discovers that the murder is connected to a series of mysterious events and hidden truths involving several people around him.
Diabolik: Who Are You? (Diabolik Chi Sei?)｜Antonio Manetti, Marco Manetti｜Italy｜Canadian Festival Premiere
Captured by a ruthless gang, long-time rivals Diabolik and Ginko find themselves locked in a cell, facing certain death. As they confront their inevitable fate, Diabolik reveals his shadowy past with the inspector. Meanwhile, Eva Kant and Altea form an unlikely alliance, driven by their determinatIon to rescue their men. “Diabolik Chi Sei” is the third installment in the Mane; Brothers’ trilogy.
Diamonds (Diamanti)｜Ferzan Ozpetek｜Italy｜Canadian Premiere
Diamanti follows a director who calls his favourite actresses to participate in a project controlled by the rhythmic hum of sewing machines in a prestigious tailoring house; a world managed and inhabited almost entirely by women. Here, storytelling takes on a new perspective rooted in costume and tradition.
Family (Familia)｜Francesco Costabile｜Italy｜Canadian Premiere
Nearly a decade has passed since Luigi’s family last saw their father, Franco—a man who filled their home with fear and pain. Consumed by anger and searching for belonging, Luigi is drawn into a violent far-right group that thrives on hatred and oppression. When Franco unexpectedly returns, his presence reopens old wounds, reigniting trauma and threatening to unravel everything Luigi has built.
The Flood (Le Déluge)｜Gianluca Jodice｜Italy, France｜Canadian Premiere
In 1792, Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette, and their children were arrested and imprisoned in the Tour de Temple, awaiting trial. Far from the grandeur of Versailles, they are isolated and vulnerable for the first time in their lives. Surrounded by constant harassment and growing public disdain, the royal family faces the unravelling of both their identities and the old regime.
Four Letters of Love｜Polly Steele｜Ireland, UK｜North American Premiere
Nicholas and Isabel grew up worlds apart, but they are each haunted by the feeling that something – or someone – is missing. Four Letters of Love is a story about soulmates, navigating through grief, and the enduring power of true love.
Hans Zimmer & Friends: Diamonds in the Desert ｜Paul Dugdale｜Germany, USA, UK ｜Festival Premiere
A showcase of powerful live performances of Zimmer’s most iconic scores—Dune, Gladiator, Interstellar—filmed across stunning Dubai locations. With appearances by Billie Eilish, Christopher Nolan, Denis Villeneuve and more, it offers a rare glimpse into Zimmer’s creative process and the enduring impact of his music.
Howl’s Moving Castle (ハウルの動く城, Hauru no Ugoku Shiro)｜Hayao Miyazaki｜Japan, USA｜Special Anniversary Presentation
In a war-torn kingdom, a young woman named Sophie is cursed with an old body by a spiteful witch. Seeking a way to break the spell, she finds refuge in the moving castle of the mysterious wizard Howl. With the fate of the castle and those she cares about at stake, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, courage, and unexpected romance.
I Don’t Understand You｜David Joseph Craig, Brian Crano｜USA, Italy｜Special Presentation
Dom and Cole, a married couple from Los Angeles, travel to Italy to celebrate their 10th anniversary before adopting a child. Instead of relaxation, they find themselves lost in the countryside, drenched by rain, with no cell service, or any idea of what’s happening.
The Illusion (L’abbaglio)｜Roberto Andò｜Italy｜International Premiere
Giuseppe Garibaldi embarked on the legendary Expedition of the Thousand from Quarto. Upon landing in Sicily at Marsala, it appeared nearly impossible for Garibaldi to break through enemy defenses until he conceived a daring plan…
I’m Still Here (Ainda Estou Aqui)｜Walter Salles｜Brazil｜Special Presentation
In 1971, during the height of Brazil’s military dictatorship, the Paiva family — Rubens, Eunice, and their five children — lived a calm life in Rio de Janeiro. One day, Rubens is taken by authorities for questioning and never returns, leaving Eunice to navigate the dangers of a repressive regime while holding her family together.
I Saw a King (Ho Visto un Re)｜Giorgia Farina｜Italy｜North American Premiere
Emilio, a young boy living in a small Italian village, soon finds his child-like worldview forever changed as he is exposed to the harsh realities of the fascist regime that is enabled at the behest of his father – the mayor of the village – when a friendship grows between Emilio and an imprisoned Ethiopian leader.
Juliet & Romeo｜Timothy Scott Bogart｜USA｜Canadian Premiere
Set in 1301, Juliet & Romeo reimagines the iconic lovers rewriting their fate—and history—through a bold twist: original pop music replaces poetry, propelling their timeless story into a powerful, unexpected retelling that reshapes the empire’s future and transforms a classic tale like never before.
The Little Girl with the Suitcase (La Bambina con la Valigia)｜Gianluca Mazzella｜Italy｜International Premiere
Winter 1944: In bomb-ravaged Pola, young Egea Haffner clings to fleeting moments of peace with her family. As World War II ends and Marshal Tito’s forces take over Istria, fear deepens. Two soldiers arrive at the Haffner home one night, searching for Egea’s father, only to find that he’s vanished.
The Frikis (Los Frikis)｜Tyler Nilson, Michael Schwartz｜USA｜Canadian Premiere
Facing extreme poverty in Cuba at the height of the AIDS crisis, a group of punk rockers deliberately inject themselves with HIV to live in a government-run treatment home to escape economic hardship and to live freely.
Love and Bullets (Ammore e Malavita)｜Antonio Manetti, Marco Manetti｜Italy｜Special Presentation
To protect her crime boss husband, Donna Maria fakes Don Vincenzo’s death. When a nurse spots him alive, he sends his top enforcers to silence her. Ciro takes the job—only to discover the target is Fatima, the woman he once loved, forcing him to choose between duty and heart.
The Marching Band (En Fanfare)｜Emmanuel Courcol｜France｜Canadian Premiere
Renowned conductor Thibaut is diagnosed with leukemia and urgently needs a bone marrow transplant. His search for a donor leads to the discovery of his biological brother who plays in the local marching band. As the two men navigate their newfound connection, they confront the challenges of their pasts and the hardships they’ve endured.
Maria, I’m Dying! (María, ¡Me Muero!)｜Gabriella Sobarzo｜Mexico｜International Premiere
Maria is stuck trying to deal with her husband’s uniquely rare hypochondriac tendencies, where he believes that every cold is a terminal illness. Eventually, Maria decides to do things her own way to help her husband get over his fears.
Maria Montessori (La Nouvelle Femme)｜Léa Todorov｜Italy｜Special Presentation
In 1900, Lili d’Alengy, a celebrated Parisian courtesan, is hiding a secret: her daughter, Tina, was born with a learning disability. Fearing scandal, Lili flees to Rome where she meets Maria Montessori, a doctor and revolutionary teacher. Together, the two women help each other earn their place in a patriarchal world and make history.
My Place is Here (Il Mio Posto è Qui)｜Cristiano Bortone, Daniela Porto｜Italy｜Canadian Premiere
After World War II, in a small town in Calabria, Marta, a single mother about to marry an older farmer, unexpectedly becomes friends with Lorenzo, the village’s openly gay “wedding planner.” Set during Italy’s first year of women’s suffrage, Marta endeavours to find her place in a world that’s rapidly changing.
Naples to New York (Napoli – New York)｜Gabriele Salvatores｜Italy｜International Premiere
Two Neapolitan kids, Carmine and Celestina, embark on a ship to New York to escape Italy’s early post war poverty in the hope of reuniting with Celestina’s sister, who emigrated to America years earlier. The two must find a way to adapt to their new surroundings, and hopefully find a place they can call home.
Nuvola. An Open Project for the City｜Francesca Molteni, Luca Caon｜Italy｜International Premiere
NUVOLA explores Lavazza’s urban renewal project in Turin, centred on its headquarters and the surrounding Aurora district. Through eight chapters, it captures life within Nuvola’s spaces – its museum, restaurant, garden square, and repurposed power plant – revealing how architecture and community shape one another over time.
Oh, Hi!｜Sophie Brooks｜USA｜Canadian Premiere
Iris thinks she’s found the perfect guy in Isaac – he’s charming, funny, and the kind of person who plans a surprise weekend getaway. It all sounds perfect, but as the trip unfolds, their romantic escape starts to feel a little… off. What begins as a dreamy weekend quickly unravels into a mess of mixed signals, awkward silences, and questionable decisions.
Parthenope｜Paolo Sorrentino｜Italy｜Special Presentation
Parthenope follows a beautiful, enigmatic, brilliant woman born near Naples in 1950, who is shamelessly courted by many. A pivotal summer in 1973 on Capri introduces her to American writer John Cheever, marking a non-romantic connection that influences her evolving sense of identity.
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World｜Edgar Wright｜Canada｜Special Anniversary Presentation
A slacker bassist must battle his new crush’s seven evil exes to win her heart. Set in a video game-inspired Toronto, this fast-paced, genre-blending adventure follows Scott’s hilarious, action-packed journey through love, growth, and the ultimate fight: becoming a better version of himself.
Showtime 7 (ショウタイムセブン, Shōtaimu Sebun)｜Watanabe Kazutaka｜Japan｜Canadian Premiere
Once a star anchor, Orimoto Shinnosuke has been relegated to a radio gig until a caller warns of an imminent explosion. Thrust into a deadly negotiation, he seizes the chance for redemption, eager to reclaim his spot on the news program “Showtime 7.” Is this his chance at redemption or will he become the next victim of a twisted mastermind?
Siblings (La Vita da Grandi)｜Greta Scarano｜Italy｜International Premiere
Irene has built a life for herself in Rome, but when her mother calls with a favour, she finds herself back in Rimini, tasked with caring for her autistic brother, Omar. Omar has big dreams, but to chase them, he needs to be independent. Determined to help, Irene embarks on an impromptu crash course in “adulting”— a journey neither of them expected.
Smart Rabbit Momo: The Big Chase (Akıllı Tavşan Momo: Büyük Takip)｜Mahmut Hasan｜Türkiye｜International Premiere
Adventure springs to life in the heart of the magical Singing Forest. When Yumi – a gifted young violinist – is kidnapped by mysterious intruders, it’s up to the clever rabbit Momo and his loyal forest friends to save her.
Song of the Fireflies｜King Palisoc｜Philippines｜Canadian Premiere
The Loboc Children’s Choir was founded in the 1980s, featuring the inspiring voices of children from the small town of Loboc. As they rise to global fame, their enchanting performances showcase the power of music, community, and the enduring spirit of a teacher’s love for his students.
Treasure｜Julia von Heinz｜Germany, France, Poland, Belgium, Hungary, USA｜Canadian Festival Premiere
Treasure follows Ruth, an American music journalist, and her father, Edek, a charmingly stubborn Holocaust survivor, on a journey to his homeland. This emotional, funny culture clash of two New Yorkers exploring post-socialist Poland is a powerful example of how reconnecting with family and the past can be an unexpected treasure.
U.S. Palmese｜Antonio Manetti, Marco Manetti｜Italy｜International Premiere
In the small Calabrian town of Palmi, a retired farmer hatches a wild plan to revive the local soccer team by bringing in hotheaded ‘Serie A’ star Etienne Morville. Albeit unwillingly, Morville leaves Milan to move to Palmi and try to save his image. In the small town he will come up against a reality of sincerity, which will lead everyone on an unforgettable experience.
Vermiglio｜Maura Delpero｜Italy｜Special Presentation
Set in 1944, in a remote, snow-covered mountain village, the war feels both distant and ever-present. The arrival of Pietro, a Sicilian soldier who has deserted the front, unsettles the rhythms of the local schoolmaster’s family. A tender romance develops between Pietro and Lucia, the eldest daughter, defying the chaos around them. Through themes of love and renewal, Vermiglio offers a poetic reflection on how, in just one year, everything can be lost and remade.
Vincenzo Nibali – The 7th Champion (Vincenzo Nibali – Il 7 Campione)｜Marco Spagnoli｜Italy｜International Premeire
Vincenzo Nibali sets off to Sicily accompanied by friends, family, and local fans, retracing key moments of his life and career: his childhood, his move to Tuscany at 16, and the triumphs that made him a cycling legend. One of only seven riders to win the Giro d’Italia, Tour de France, and Vuelta a España, Nibali’s journey is a heartfelt tribute to his roots, his achievements, and his future.
The Weekend｜Daniel Emeke Oriahi｜Nigeria｜Canadian Premiere
Nikiya issues an ultimatum to her fiancé, Luc: either introduce her to his estranged family or risk losing her. Reluctantly, Luc agrees, concealing the dark truth behind his family’s past to preserve their relationship. Nikiya soon uncovers the frightening reasons that drove Luc away from his family, realizing that the price of belonging may be more than she bargained for.
Weightless (Sulla Terra Leggeri)｜Sara Fgaier｜Italy｜Canadian Premiere
Gian, a 65-year old professor, suffers from a sudden onset of amnesia – his hazy recollection of his memories serving as a haunting reminder of the pain of his new condition. His whole world changes when his daughter gives him a diary containing excerpts – fleeting moments in time – which, although Gian finds it painful, ultimately guides him towards peace.
What If｜Michael Dowse｜Canada｜Special Presentation
Wallace, a medical-school dropout living in Toronto, has his world unexpectedly changed when he meets Chantry, who is in a long-term relationship. They form an instant connection, and as their bond deepens, undeniable chemistry sparks between them, forcing both to confront the question: can your best friend also be the love of your life?
When Mom is Away…With the In-Laws (10 Giorni con i Suoi)｜Alessandro Genovesi｜Italy｜International Premiere
When their eldest daughter, Camilla, decides to move to Puglia with her boyfriend Antonio to attend university, Carlo and Giulia Rovelli, along with their younger children, follow her to Antonio’s family estate, the Paradisos. As the Rovelli’s settle into the Paradisos, Carlo is determined to make his presence anything but welcome. Amid thefts, lies, and elopements, both families are forced to navigate their differences and find a way to coexist.
Who Wants to Be a Parent? (Dove Osano le Cicogne)｜Fausto Braze｜Italy｜International Premiere
A couple struggling to conceive a child leaves for Spain, hoping to receive treatment from a world-renowned fertility doctor. Just as the couple begins the process, they cross paths with a young woman who volunteers to be their surrogate, causing them to reconsider their original plan. Their journey to parenthood now rests in the hands of a stranger…
Wisteria｜Nina Moscone Marrese, Russ De Jong｜Canada｜World Premiere
Alana and Jack are two lovers who vowed to love each other eternally, but their world shatters when a tragic accident takes Jack’s life. Ten years after Jack’s death, Alana sees a 10 year old musical protégé on the news who bears an uncanny resemblance to Jack as a child. Consumed by a need to know the truth, Alana travels to Vienna to meet the boy.
A World Apart (Un Mondo a Parte)｜Riccardo Milani｜Italy｜International Premiere
Michele Cortese, an elementary school teacher in Rome, has been reassigned to a small, multi-grade school in the heart of the Abruzzo National Park, with just a handful of children aged 7-10. As Michele grows closer to the children and settles into his new role, unforeseen challenges arise and he is forced to navigate obstacles that threaten the school’s future.
SHORT FILM SELECTION
The Lavazza IncluCity Festival is proud to present the work of up-and-coming filmmakers with short films from all around the world.
Canadian Shorts
Audio & the Alligator｜Andrés I. Estrada｜Canada
Baby｜Andrea Ramolo｜Canada
Extras｜Marc-Antoine Lemire｜Canada
Gemma｜Christina Ienna｜Canada
Gender Reveal｜Mo Matton｜Canada
Himalia｜Clara Milo, Juliette Lossky｜Canada
Incontro｜Roberto Zorfini｜Canada
Julian in the Wind｜Connor Jessup｜Canada
A Night Under the Stars in the Parking Lot｜Andrea Ramolo｜Canada
The Table Between Us｜Anna Primiani｜Canada
Uasheshkun｜Normand Junior Thirnish-Pilot｜Canada
Who Loves the Sun｜Arshia Shakiba｜Canada
International Shorts
The Actor｜Damjan Kozole｜Slovenia
Albertcamus｜Giovanni Nodari｜Italy
The Champ｜Ermir Keta｜Albania
Conex｜Dina Rezaei｜Iran
Dori｜Redi Mazi｜Albania, Spain
Dream Car Wash｜Edoardo Brighenti｜UK
A Good Day Will Come｜Amir Zargara｜Turkey
Laddove Manchi｜Mauro Lamanna｜Italy
Pinocchio Reborn｜Andrea Cirillo｜Italy
Samsa｜Gianpiero Pumo｜Italy
Taste of India｜Fabio Garofalo, Jacopo Santambrogio｜Italy
Yuri｜Ryan William Harris｜Italy
Animated & Experimental Shorts
Canada UFO News 1969｜Danilo Ursini｜Canada
Dagon｜Paolo Gaudio｜Italy
Géant Beaupré｜Alain Fournier｜Canada
Hephaestus and Aphrodite｜Daniel R Allen｜USA
The Illusionist Dilemma｜Carlo De Togni｜Italy
K’uchu: A childhood place｜Alessio Del Pozo Temoche｜Peru
The Little Ancestor｜Alexa Tremblay-Francoeur｜Canada
Nonna’s Seeds｜Patricia Marcoccia｜Canada
Playing God｜Matteo Burnai｜Italy
Digital Platform
Albert｜Michele Silvano｜Italy
Alma｜Camilla Cattabriga｜Italy
Appunto a Mezzogiorno｜Antonio Passaro｜Italy
La buona condotta｜Francesco Gheghi｜Italy
Come uccidere un usignolo｜Giulia Pelizzari｜Italy
Esotici fuori luogo｜Francesca Sapio e Caterina Tarquini｜Italy
L’innesto｜Gabriele Campanella｜Italy
Il Pezzo｜Kimberly Scarsella｜Italy
Superbi｜Nikola Brunelli｜Italy
COMPETITION AWARDS
The Lavazza IncluCity Festival will announce the Excellence, Lifetime Achievement, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress and Jury Awards throughout the festival. The People’s Choice and Short Film Awards will be announced on Sunday, July 20. All film categories, except special event programs, will be eligible for the People’s Choice Award.
Tickets are available for purchase now at https://icff.ca/.
Press Accreditation is mandatory at https://icff.ca/press-accreditation-form-2/.
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About ICFF
Inaugurated as a grassroots non-profit film festival in 2012, ICFF has developed into a multidisciplinary and multicultural organization that embraces all facets of the arts. ICFF has grown to celebrate over 20 different local communities through premieres and special events, attracting 58,000+ attendees at its summer initiative. For more information, visit https://icff.ca/.
About Lavazza
Lavazza, founded in Turin in 1895, has been owned by the Lavazza family for four generations. Today the Group is one of the leading players on the global coffee scene, with turnover of over € 2.7 billion and a portfolio of top brands that lead their respective markets, such as Lavazza, Carte Noire, Merrild and Kicking Horse. It is active in all business sectors and has operations in 140 markets, with 8 manufacturing plants in 5 countries and about 5,500 collaborators all over the world. The Group’s global presence is the result of over 125 years of growth and the more than 30 billion cups of Lavazza coffee produced every year are a testament to a remarkable success story, with the goal of continuing to offer the best coffee possible, in all forms, by focusing on every aspect of the supply chain, from the selection of the raw material to the product in the cup. Lavazza Group has revolutionized coffee culture by investing continuously in research and development: from the intuition that marked the company’s earliest success – the coffee blend – to the development of innovative packaging solutions; from the first espresso sipped in Space to the dozens of industrial patents. The ability to be ahead of the times is also reflected in the focus on sustainability – economic, social and environmental – which has always been a benchmark for guiding corporate strategies. “Awakening a better world every morning” is the corporate purpose of Lavazza Group, with the aim of creating sustainable value for shareholders, collaborators, consumers and the communities in which it operates, combining competitiveness with social and environmental responsibility.
About The Distillery Historic District
The Distillery Historic District opened in 2003 and is today widely regarded as Canada’s premier arts, culture and entertainment destination. It’s a national historic site, originally founded in 1832, brimming with creativity and creative people that can inspire dreams and help them come true. The 13-acre walking district is a dramatic fusion of old and new. The space boasts an inspired blend of the largest collection of Victorian Industrial architecture in North America and stunning 21st century design and creativity. The result is an internationally acclaimed village of one-of-a-kind stores, shops, galleries, studios, restaurants, cafes, theatres and more, which was named one of The Coolest Shopping Districts Around the World by The Guardian. Visit www.thedistillerydistrict.com for more information.
About the 2025 ICFF Festival Sponsors and Partners
For more information or to request interviews, please contact:
Donatella Zanon, ICFF Communications Manager
media@icff.ca
