Isabella Rossellini to receive lifetime achievement award at European Film Awards
Celebrating a legacy in cinema
Isabella Rossellini, the iconic Italian actress and filmmaker, is set to be honored with a lifetime achievement award at the upcoming European Film Awards. This accolade recognizes her extensive contributions to the world of cinema, both in front of and behind the camera.
A star is born
Rossellini, the daughter of legendary Swedish actress Ingrid Bergman and renowned Italian director Roberto Rossellini, began her acting career in 1979 with the Taviani brothers’ film Il Prato. However, it was her role in David Lynch’s Blue Velvet in 1986 that catapulted her to international fame. Her performance in this film showcased her unique ability to blend vulnerability with strength, a trait that would become a hallmark of her career.
A versatile career
Over the years, Rossellini has demonstrated her versatility as an actress, taking on a wide range of roles in various genres. Some of her most notable performances include:
- Taylor Hackford’s White Nights: A dramatic tale of defection and dance.
- Robert Zemeckis’s Death Becomes Her: A dark comedy exploring the quest for eternal youth.
- Peter Weir’s Fearless: A gripping drama about the aftermath of a plane crash.
Her ability to seamlessly transition between different types of characters and stories has solidified her status as a cinematic chameleon.
Recent resurgence
At 72, Rossellini continues to captivate audiences with her performances. Recently, she has taken on standout roles in:
- Alice Rohrwacher’s La Chimera: A film that delves into the complexities of human relationships.
- Spaceman: Starring alongside Adam Sandler and Carey Mulligan, this film explores the boundaries of space and human emotion.
- Edward Berger’s Conclave: In this soon-to-be-released film, Rossellini plays a scene-stealing nun, adding another memorable character to her repertoire.
Beyond the screen
Rossellini’s talents extend beyond acting. A longtime resident of Long Island, she holds a master’s degree in animal behavior and conservation from Hunter College in New York City. This academic background has informed her work as a filmmaker, particularly in her series of short films: Green Porno, Seduce Me, and Mammas. These humorous and educational shorts explore the sex lives of animals, blending scientific insight with Rossellini’s unique brand of storytelling.
Additionally, Rossellini has toured over 50 cities across three continents with her theatrical monologues, which explore the connections between humans and animals. Her ability to engage audiences with both humor and intellect has made these performances a resounding success.
Acknowledging a trailblazer
The European Film Academy, in announcing the award, emphasized that this honor ”serves as a reminder of the depth and breadth of talent that continues to shape the landscape of world cinema.” Rossellini’s contributions have indeed left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring both her peers and future generations of filmmakers.
The upcoming ceremony
The 37th European Film Awards, often referred to as Europe’s equivalent of the Oscars, will take place in Lucerne, Switzerland, on December 7. This event promises to be a celebration of cinematic excellence, with Rossellini’s lifetime achievement award serving as a highlight of the evening.
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For more information on the European Film Awards and to watch trailers of the mentioned films, visit European Film Awards.