Ava Gardner captivated audiences with a blend of beauty, charisma, and stage presence that left a lasting mark on the screen. The Barefoot Countess, the 1954 film directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz and featuring Humphrey Bogart, remains a milestone in classic cinema. The story follows Maria Vargas, a brilliant Spanish dancer who makes a dramatic leap to Hollywood stardom, a journey that showcases talent, glamour, and the magnetic pull of the silver screen. In this cinematic drama, three directors collaborated to shape her rise, underscoring Gardner’s enduring appeal across generations of movie lovers in North America and beyond. This film is highlighted at major festivals for its artistry and its place in film history, celebrated as part of a broader homage to the actress’s centennial. The festival organizers have even designed the edition poster by Mario-Paul Martínez to honor her legacy. [Attribution: Festival organizers and cinema historians]
Combining romance with intrigue, the film is presented as a key piece within a program that reflects Gardner’s influence on the art form. The presentation at the 46th Elche International Film Festival ties together the festival’s traditional elements with the city’s iconic landmarks, including palm-lined avenues, the Basilica of Santa María, and the Palau de Altamira. The event emphasizes the cross-cultural impact of Gardner’s work and how it resonates with audiences in Canada and the United States who cherish classic Hollywood cinema.
The Barefoot Countess offers a compelling glimpse into Hollywood’s golden era, where talent, ambition, and charm intersect. The screening is scheduled to begin at 19:00 at Odeón Cinemas. Admission is free, with seating limited to the venue’s capacity. This timely showcase allows festival-goers to revisit Gardner’s performance and its influence on fashion, music, and storytelling in film.
Ava Gardner was born on December 24, 1922, in North Carolina. She became an iconic actress and is widely regarded as one of the greatest stars of the 20th century, a true myth of cinema. Known for her captivating beauty and remarkable talent on the big screen, Gardner rose to prominence during Hollywood’s golden age. Her career spanned more than four decades, bringing audiences unforgettable performances in films such as The Killers (1946), Mogambo (1953), and Night of the Iguana (1964). Her legacy endures in the memories of fans and in the ongoing study of classic cinema.
46th edition
Elche Film Festival is organized by the Mediterranean Foundation in cooperation with the Elche City Council and the Luis Buñuel Film Club. It stands as the enduring film competition of the Valencian Community and marks its 46th edition from July 11 to July 21. The festival remains committed to celebrating cinematic artistry, mentoring new voices, and spotlighting enduring classics alongside contemporary works.
During the festival, audiences can enjoy a schedule that blends screenings of short and feature films with special awards at the Hort del Xocolater and Odeón Cinemas. The closing Gala, running from July 11 to July 20, culminates on Friday, July 21, with a celebration of cinema, memory, and contemporary impact.
Alongside official screenings, the festival offers a robust program of parallel activities. Attendees can participate in courses, workshops, and round tables aimed at discussing the seventh art, offering insights into direction, performance, and the craft of storytelling.