By MICHAEL GINGOLD
It’s a new showcase for frightening cinema in the Canadian city.
Toronto’s Lavazza IncluCity Festival, presented by the Italian Contemporary Film Festival, is launching the Dark Side of Distillery District program, presenting three new horror features during the event’s run. First up on June 30 is the North American theatrical premiere of Nick Kozakis’ GODLESS: THE EASTFIELD EXORCISM, a religious scarefest from Australia, followed on July 7 by the Canadian premiere of Marisa Vallone’s witchcraft opus LE TERRA DELLE DONNE (THE LAND OF WOMEN). Finally, a special presentation of the uncut version of INFINITY POOL will take place on July 14, with director Brandon Cronenberg and cinematographer Karim Hussain in attendance.
“I’m thrilled to announce the opening of this new experience for the horror genre in a wholly unique setup,” says ICFF artistic director Cristiano de Florentiis. “And, I’m all the more proud to welcome Brandon to the heart of fear and fascination, where we will pay homage to his remarkable contributions. This is surely an event that horror enthusiasts cannot afford to miss.”
“At ICFF, our mission is to push boundaries and provide a truly unforgettable experience for fans,” says Andrea Chiaramello, head of Lavazza, Canada. “With the launch of our exciting new horror program, we have assembled a collection of spine-chilling stories that will leave audiences breathless and craving for more.”
“Cinema has the power to reflect the very essence of who we are,” says genre journalist/author/filmmaker Chris Alexander, curator of the Dark Side lineup. “And when it comes to horror, that reflection is most assuredly dark and occasionally upsetting. The trio of films selected for this year’s program are examples of the genre at its most riveting and refined: earthy, sensual, visceral and ultimately, unforgettable works that are guaranteed to both challenge and terrify.”
Tickets for these films and the rest of the festival can be ordered here.
