"Marcello Marcello" - 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF2) Opening Night Film May 14, 2009

The 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF2), the ten-day flagship festival of the San Joaquin Film Society, will kick-off with the Northern California premiere of Denis Rabaglia's "Marcello Marcello"

A special red carpet ribbon cutting will take place at 6:00PM, with the presence of guest artist, principle actor Francesco Mistichelli. Doors open at 6:15PM.

At 7:00PM, follow the red carpet to an extraordinary evening with: a special compilation of clips from SJIFF2 films; presentation of prizes to award-winning films of SJIFF2 selected by a distinguished jury; the Opening short film "Para Asia" (USA Premiere) by Spanish-Singaporean director Fran Borgia; and the presence of celebrated filmmakers and innovators from around the world - all leading up to the Northern California Premiere of "Marcello Marcello."

At 9:30PM be seen in style at the annual "With the Stars" Opening Night Party, taking place in the theater’s mezzanine. Celebrate SJIFF2 with festive entertainment and an energetic crowd of film lovers, guest artists, and the media. Savor a collection of scrumptious cuisine from Downtown Stockton restaurants, along with fine wine and refreshing drinks.

SYNOPSIS

Based on an original novel entitled Marcello's Date by British-born musician and author Mark David Hatwood.

Italy, 1956. In the picturesque island of Amatrello, a unique custom keeps the young men of the village busy: when a girl turns eighteen, every boy is invited to bring a gift for her first date. However the gift is not for the girl, but for the father... who will ultimately determine which boy takes her on her first rendez-vous! Eighteen-year-old fisherman's son Marcello doesn't care about this tradition until he sets eyes on the enchanting Elena, the daughter of the Mayor, who has returned to the island and - according to the tradition - has come of age. As time runs out and competition rises, Marcello comes up with the perfect gift for the Mayor. But getting that gift isn't easy... Soon, he is forced to barter with the entire village, as everyone seems to want something from someone else... Marcello's frantic quest ensues, evolving into a process of reconciliation among the village's inhabitants.

Film Details: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/f-marcello.html

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ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

The 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF2), the flagship annual exhibition of the San Joaquin Film Society taking place May 14 to 23, 2009 - is a glorious world showcase of new and innovative works from emerging talents and seasoned international artists, presented in various venues across the city of Stockton in the heart of California's Central Valley. SJIFF2 will feature: red carpet premieres; new independent American and world films; Animania - a cinematic spotlight on animated cinema; tributes to celebrated and rising filmmakers; an exhilarating collection of the world's top short-length films from new and accomplished directors; educational programs, panels, interactive discussions; family events and programmes; a cultural family day at the museum; guest celebrities, entertainment and industry luminaries, and filmmakers from around the nation and the world; world-class galas and festive parties; and diverse programs for all ages.

Official Festival Website: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09
Films: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/films.html
Tickets: www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT THE SAN JOAQUIN FILM SOCIETY
The San Joaquin Film Society, Inc. (SJFS), home of the San Joaquin International Film Festival, celebrates cinema arts, multi-cultural appreciation, and global outreach through year-round productions of festivals, films, and educational programs. For 2009, in addition to the international film festival in May, SJFS launched an ambitious year of events that includes the 1st San Joaquin Children's Film Festival in January, the 1st California International Documentary Film Festival in the Fall, year-round cinema programs, special events, and educational programs. SJFS is dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and power of filmmaking; and to bringing the world of cinema to the culturally-rich Central Valley audiences.

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

Official Website: http://www.sjiff.org