Sheffield Doc/Fest brings the international documentary family together to celebrate the art and business of documentary making for five intense days each November. When DCA was offered the chance screen the “Best of the Fest” we jumped at the chance. Proving that truth really is stranger than fiction, this weekend of screenings is a feast for anyone interested in non-fiction filmmaking.

Italy’s wanna-be’s, their up-starts, show men, and show women personify the greatest aspirations of beauty in Berlosconi’s Italy today. After all, having a media mogul for president for so long can ever so subtly turn the public away from each other and from truth, towards a simpler version of existence where morality is only set by what you see in the mirror. Erik Gandini exploits his position as insider and ex-pat to make sharp incisions into the new consciousness of Italy under Berlusconi, pointing his lens at three stories that centre on the country’s obsession with fame, a sardonic sexuality and greed. Gandini’s work has borne the brunt of censorship recently after ruffling the creases in many a politician’s suit both inside and outside Italy. So you know it’s got to be good. This is Italy from above and below the belt. This is Italy through a lens darkly.

Winner of the Doc/Fest Special Jury Award

A pass to see all the films in the Sheffield Doc/Fest series is only £15.00 (£10.00 conc)