Capri Hollywood: 20 Years of Cinema on the Island
It’s been about a month since the Capri Hollywood Film Festival lit up the winter streets of Capri, Italy. This end-of-year event, held from December 26th to January 2nd, is dedicated to celebrating the “best of” and “what’s next” in international cinema. The festival presented around 80 films, including premieres, special screenings, symposiums and music performances.
A-list stars and film industry insiders filled Capri’s most iconic spots, turning the island into a glamorous winter getaway. This edition marked the festival’s 20th anniversary, an important milestone for one of the most fascinating film events in the Mediterranean.
A Tribute to Brigitte Bardot
To celebrate its long history, the festival dedicated this edition to French actress Brigitte Bardot, an international icon who famously appeared on the rooftops of Casa Malaparte in Jean-Luc Godard’s film “Contempt”. Her image remains closely tied to the island’s myth and allure.
Awards, Premieres and International Films
Like many major festivals, Capri Hollywood showcased an eclectic mix of European art-house cinema and American independent releases attracting awards attention. Among the most celebrated films were The Hateful Eight, Room, Beasts of No Nation and Youth.
Quentin Tarantino’s The Hateful Eight made a strong impression at the festival, winning four awards: Best Film, Best Actor for Samuel L. Jackson, Best Supporting Actress for Jennifer Jason Leigh and Best Score. It was a very successful night for the film’s cast and crew.
Cast of The Hateful Eight
Room star Brie Larson received the award for Best Leading Actress, while Bobby Moresco was honoured with the Capri Italian-American Award of the Year.
Spotlight on The Danish Girl
Another high-profile title screened during the festival was The Danish Girl, starring Oscar-winning actor Eddie Redmayne. The film, which tells the story of a transgender woman, received a Humanitarian Award. This recognition is particularly meaningful on Capri, an island historically known as a haven for artists, intellectuals and free thinkers.
The screening was followed by a forum organised by Young People Against Homophobia, focusing on LGBTQ+ issues and current debates in Italy. This kind of subject matter is still relatively rare in European mainstream media and represents an important step toward a more inclusive future.
Italian Talent and Special Guests
Many Italian filmmakers and artists were also recognised in Capri, including Giuseppe M. Gaudino, Guido Chiesa, Marco Ponti, Massimiliano Bruno and Riccardo Milani. Among the actors, Paola Cortellesi received the Capri Award as Italian Actress of the Year, while Alessandro Cremona was honoured with the Exploit Award for his role in 007 – Spectre.
Other talents awarded include Alessandro Siani (Tv Sorrisi e Canzoni’s Special Telegatto for the 2015 Best Box Office hit “Si accettano miracoli”), Francesco Pannofino, Giulia Elettra Gorietti, Federico R. Rossi and pianist Giovanni Allevi for music.
Paola Cortellesi – Capri Award as Italian Actress of the Year
Partners and Institutions Behind the Festival
The festival is supported by the Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities (D.G. Cinema), the Campania Region (Department of Tourism and Cultural Heritage), the Italian Trade Agency, and the towns of Capri and Anacapri, with the participation of Rainbow, Ambi Group, Mediaset and Rai.
How to Reach Capri for the Festival
The island of Capri is located in the Bay of Naples, surrounded by some of the most beautiful destinations in Southern Italy. If you are planning to attend Capri Hollywood or simply wish to discover the island’s cinematic atmosphere, you can combine your stay with boat transfers and private boat tours in the area.
For excursions, private boat tours and customised transfers, visit Ischia Charter Boat to plan your experience on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this article about?
This article is a practical guide to Capri. Discover Capri Hollywood’s 20th anniversary film festival: awards, stars and cinema on Capri, plus how to reach the island with private boat tours.
Why is Capri worth visiting by boat?
Exploring Capri by boat gives you a more flexible itinerary, panoramic coastal views, easier access to coves or ports, and a more exclusive travel experience.
How can Ischia Charter Boat help plan the experience?
We can support private boat transfers, tailor-made excursions and practical planning for travelers who want to discover the Gulf of Naples in a more comfortable and memorable way.