The Italian government has selected the film “Vermiglio” to represent the country for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film. The drama, directed by Maura Delpero, tells the story of a family living in a remote Alpine village during World War II.
Set in northern Italy, “Vermiglio” follows siblings Maria, Giovanni, and Lucia who live with their grandparents. Their peaceful village life is disrupted when a wounded soldier seeks refuge with them. As the war intensifies around them, the family must decide how to respond amid the conflict.
Delpero drew inspiration from her own family history in the region during the 1940s. The film was shot on location to accurately portray rural life at the time. “Vermiglio” shows how even an isolated community was affected by worldwide events.
After premiering at the Venice Film Festival last month, “Vermiglio” won the Silver Lion Grand Jury Prize. It has since screened to positive reviews at other festivals like Toronto. The performances explore difficult decisions families faced with allegiance and duty during war.
Distribution rights for “Vermiglio” in North America were acquired following its successes. Italy has had strong representation in the Best International Feature Oscar category previously. With 14 wins out of 33 nominations, no country has won more. Their last victory came in 2013 for Paolo Sorrentino’s “The Great Beauty.”
