The Ischia Global Fest, currently in its 24th edition on Italy’s “Green Island,” is shifting its focus toward emerging talent in the entertainment industry.
Did you know? The festival jury is chaired by Oscar winner for makeup, Alessandro Bertolazzi, signaling a strong emphasis on the technical and artistic crafts behind the camera.
Ron Moss Transitions from ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’ to Directing
Actor and singer Ron Moss, widely recognized for his role as Ridge Forrester in The Bold and the Beautiful, has used the festival to debut his directorial work.
In an interview with Dir.bg, Moss detailed his directorial philosophy, citing Clint Eastwood as an influence. Moss stated that when a necessary shot is captured, there is no need for 30 additional takes. He also revealed that his iconic style as Ridge was inspired by designer Valentino Garavani, whom he met in Rome.
The transition from acting to directing wasn’t immediate. Moss told Dir.bg that after leaving the soap opera, it took nearly two years to separate his real identity from the character he played for 25 years. He now spends a significant portion of his time in Italy, where he owns a home in the Puglia region.
Global Cinema Trends: From Iranian Dramas to Chinese Martial Arts
The film selection at this year’s Ischia Global Fest reflects a trend toward high-concept international co-productions and diverse storytelling. According to the festival’s programming, several key premieres are driving the current discourse:
- The Second-Hand Store: A Canadian-Irish co-production by Suresh Cedric Pereira, focusing on a musical drama and cross-continental love.
- Takht-e Tavoos: An Iranian production by Shahab Hosseini, who previously won Best Actor at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival for his work with Asghar Farhadi.
- Broken Spear: A Chinese production by Zui Ying Pictures that blends martial arts, fantasy, and historical elements.
- The Final: A Lebanese narrative by Rodolphe Montcer Chedid exploring memory and aging couples.
Pro Tip: For those tracking independent cinema, keep an eye on co-productions like Espina (Panama/USA), which features Aaron Diaz and Lola Ponce, as these partnerships often bridge the gap between regional markets and global streaming platforms.
The Influence of Genre-Bending and Star Power
The festival continues to attract “A-list” talent who are diversifying their portfolios. Jim Sheridan, the Oscar-winning director of My Left Foot and In the Name of the Father, has returned to the island, anchoring the event’s prestige. Other notable attendees include director Abel Ferrara and British producer Trudy Styler.
The film features Kit Connor, known for Netflix’s Heartstopper and the biopic Rocketman, alongside Game of Thrones actress Charlotte Hope.
Quick Comparison: Festival Highlights
| Project | Genre/Origin | Key Talent |
|---|---|---|
| Tex McKenzie | Modern Western (USA) | Ron Moss |
| Ladoo | Indian Cinema | Shailendra Singh |
| Out of Order | Comedy (USA/UK) | Brandon Routh, Brooke Shields |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of this year’s Ischia Global Fest?
The festival is specifically focusing on young talents within the entertainment industry, while showcasing 185 films and hosting 120 guests.
Who is Ron Moss and why is he at the festival?
Ron Moss is an American actor and singer famous for his role as Ridge in The Bold and the Beautiful. He is attending to receive an award and present his directorial debut, Tex McKenzie.
Which world premieres are featured at the event?
Key premieres include The Second-Hand Store (Canada/Ireland), Ladoo (India), and Takht-e Tavoos (Iran).
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