20 Cigarettes

(20 sigarette)

Based on director Aureliano Amadei's 2003 experiences in Iraq, 20 Cigarettes is the gripping story of a twenty-eight year old anarchist and anti-war activist who receives an offer to fly to Iraq as assistant director on a film about the Italian military "peace mission".

Thrust into the middle of a military world he doesn't approve of, Aureliano is surprised to discover a brotherhood and shared values amongst the people he meets.

Before Aureliano has the chance to finish a packet of cigarettes he finds himself a victim of sectarian violence and, as the sole civilian survivor and witness, becomes an unlikely hero.

With its ironic humour, this film offers a different take on the war in Iraq than American movies. It's clear to see why this is also one of only a handful of European films that explores this subject matter.

Feature film will screen with English subtitles

Sessions

• VIC
• NSW
• QLD
• SA
• WA
•  

Director's Tour

Direct from his Jury position at the 2011 Venice Film Festival, Aureliano Amadei is arriving in Australia to attend the following sessions:

Wednesday 28 September - 7.00pm Introduction by Aureliano Amadei followed by 20 CIGARETTES at Palace Westgarth.

Wednesday 28 September - 9.15pm 20 CIGARETTES + Q&A at Palace Cinema Como with Aureliano Amadei and Dr. Federico Passi (Editor of iCine.it), moderated by Peter Krausz (Australian Film Critics’ Association) in collaboration with the Italian Institute of Culture, Melbourne. Tickets at normal prices.

Thursday 29 September - 7pm PANEL DISCUSSION at Palace Norton St with Aureliano Amadei (20 Cigarettes) & Paolo Minuto (Cineclub International) to discuss the state of the Italian film industry today and new trends in Italian cinema . FREE ENTRY! Present any IFF ticket stub at the Norton St candy bar in exchange of an entry ticket (limited tickets available!). In collaboration with the Italian Institute of Culture, Sydney.