MONDOVINO

A filmmaker who doubles as a sommelier, Jonathan Nossiter undoubtedly knows his wines. In MONDOVINO, one of this year's Festival highlights, he looks beyond mere wine appreciation to examine the global winemaking industry as a reflection of cultural change, disappearing tradition and the marginalisation of independent thought. Nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival - MONDOVINO has been a surprise box office hit - captivating critics and audiences worldwide!

Spanning three continents, MONDOVINO is a wonderfully insightful, affectionate and invigorating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes struggles of modern day winemaking. The story shifts from three generations of a Burgandy family battling to conserve their few acres of vineyards, to the ultra-powerful millionaires of Napa Valley in California, and the rivalry between two aristocratic Florentine dynasties. The gallery of warmly observed, engaging characters depicted is just one of the films many joys.

Never before has the fight for wine's soul been so fierce. Nor has there been so much money and glory at stake. This battle is not just about simple farmers against heads of industry  - nor necessarily Europe versus the USA - the real conflict is the industry of wine against the culture of wine - and how the almost religious relationship between the winemaker and his vines risks becoming secondary to technology and marketing. This consistently fascinating material provides a surprisingly eloquent, provocative statement against globalisation that is sure to stimulate.

France/USA - 2004 - Documentary - 131 mins
In French, Italian, Portuguese & Spanish with English subtitles

Director: Joonathan Nossiter
Cast: An international cast of wine makers, ciritics and importers from France, England, Italy, the USA, Brazil and Argentina.