Opening Film of IFFI 2018 – The Aspern Papers
The 49th edition of the International Film Festival of India is only a few days away and it’s ready to leave you awestruck with the vast array of unique and gripping films that will be showcased during the festival. With 212 movies being screened this year there’s so much to expect, from award winning films to movie premieres. This year’s opening film is the world premiere of Julien Landais’ first feature film debut ‘The Aspern Papers’.
The Aspern Papers is a historical drama that’s set in late 19th century Venice. Landais has based the film on Jean Pavans’ scenic adaptation of Henry James’ eponymous novella and has managed to capture a story of obsession, grandeur lost, and dreams of Byronic adventures.
This movie follows the life of an ambitious editor named Morton Vint, played by Golden Globe winner Jonathan Rhys Meyers, who is fascinated by the short and wildly romantic life of a poet, Jeffrey Aspern. Having traveled from America to Venice, he is determined to get his hands on the letters Aspern wrote to his beautiful lover and muse, Juliana Bordereau.
While The Aspern Papers is Julien Landais’ first feature film, the young director has done a remarkable job capturing the essence of the story and showcasing it for the world to see. He has previously directed short films, fashion films, commercials and music videos and has collaborated with major fashion brands and jewellers.
This talented director, along with the star studded cast of his film, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Vanessa Radgrave, Joely Richardson, Julia Robins and Morgane Polanski, will be attending the premiere of their movie at IFFI 2018.