Stephen Frears (“Philomena,” “The Queen) has been named 'European Director of the Year' by Capri,Hollywood

Two time Oscar®-nominated director Stephen Frears (“Philomena,” “The Queen) has been named 'European Director of the Year' by Capri,Hollywood - The International Film Festival. The British filmmaker is being honored for his latest film, "Florence Foster Jenkins,'' a brilliant comedy starring Meryl Streep and Hugh Grant which will unspool here on  December 30th. 

''This is going to be our heart-felt tribute to an outstanding contemporary director,” said Lina Wertmüller, Honorary President of the Capri in the World Institute, and Pascal Vicedomini founder and producer of the hottest year-end film festival. “Since the Eighties, Frears has been able to capture the essence of Britain with his  profound, ironic and challenging approach, constantly working between Europe and Hollywood.''

“Florence Foster Jenkins” the latest movie by the 75-year-old celebrated British filmmaker, tells an incredible story set against the fascinating New York of the Forties and revolves around wealthy heiress Florence Foster Jenkins (Meryl Streep), a passionate patron of opera. With the help of her husband and manager, St. Clair Bayfield (Hugh Grant), Florence loved to entertain the audiences with her singing, despite her poor vocal skills . The film's cast also includes Simon Helberg, Nina Arianda and Rebecca Ferguson.  

The 21st edition of Capri, Hollywood, featuring exclusive international premieres and film reviews, is chaired by Oscar-winning screenwriter Barry Morrow, with the Israeli singer Noa as president and will be dedicated to the subject of “mercy,”  including a film contest (Cinema For Mercy) for directors under 35. 

As previously announced, the festival will honor Gianfranco Rosi’s movie “Fire at Sea” (Italy's Best Foreign Language Film entry in the Oscar’s) as 'European Movie of the Year' and will pay a tribute to the iconic Italian producer Dino de Laurentiis. 

The Festival is organized by the Institute Capri in the World and it is backed by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities (D.G Cinema), of the Campania Region  (Department of Tourism and Cultural Heritage) with the City of Capri and the Municipality of Anacapri.