The Life Ahead, a new Italian film which features an awards-contending performance by the legendary Sophia Loren, will be feted with the Capri, Hollywood — The International Film Festival’s Humanitarian Award, the fest announced Tuesday.
The fest’s 25th — and first virtual — edition will run from Dec. 26 through Jan. 2.
Loren, 86, had not appeared in a feature film in 11 years or played a lead in one in 16 years prior to her return in The Life Ahead, in which she plays a Holocaust survivor and former prostitute who develops an unlikely bond with a young Senegalese boy entrusted to her care.
The Life Ahead was directed by one of her sons, Edoardo Ponti, and is being distributed around the world by Netflix. The film currently stands at a formidable 94 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, and though Italy opted to submit Gianfranco Rosi‘s Notturno as its representative in the best international feature Oscar race, Loren’s performance is very much in the running for a lead actress nomination. And “Io si,” a tune penned by Diane Warren, is a contender for an original song nom.
“The Life Ahead is a tale of tolerance, forgiveness and love, a story exploring qualities and values that particularly now appear ever more precious,” said Tony Renis, the fest’s honorary president, in a statement. “Edoardo Ponti has created an enthralling work of art that will touch the hearts of viwers from all around the world as the legendary Sophia Loren once again portrays a new, unforgettable character and does it with a magnificent, awards-worthy performance.”
Added Pascal Vicedomini, the fest’s founder and producer, “We ar looking forward to film lovers from around the globe joining the festivities online at #caprihollywood25. We are proud to be able to offer eight days filled with big cinema, professional meetings and awards ceremonies.”
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