L.I. film expo a success in its 14th year

A little Hollywood glitz and glamour came to Bellmore last week for the 14th Annual Long Island International Film Expo, which boasted eight days of independent films from around the world. The festival kicked off with a preview night on July 7 and an opening-night party the following evening.

Some 115 films graced the screens at this year’s festival at the Bellmore Movies, including 28 documentaries –– one of them by Bellmorite Leslye Abbey. Abbey’s documentary, “Experiencing Aging,” her third film screened at the expo, explored the work and writings of social worker and educator Catherine Papell.

Also featured was the movie “Jesse,” part of which was filmed in Bellmore last September. Director Fred Carpenter brought the cast and crew to shoot a scene at KJ Farrell’s Bar and Grill on Pettit Avenue. The film follows Jesse, a Nassau County detective, played by Stephanie Finochio, who gets involved in the investigation of her brother’s murder. After accidentally walking into a robbery/hostage situation at a local convenience story, Jesse seeks solace at a local bar — KJ Farrell’s. There she meets the bartender, Chris, played by Eric Roberts, and the two become romantically involved.

The festival concluded with a dinner party and awards ceremony on July 14. Singer Martha Wash launched the ceremony with a performance of “It’s Raining Men.” Award presenters included Brian O’Halloran of “Clerks,” Federico Castelluccio, Brandon Hannan and Lenny Venito of “The Sopranos,” Kevin Brown of “30 Rock,” Melissa Archer of “One Life to Live,” Tom Pelphrey of “Guiding Light,” Dash Mihok of “The Thin Red Line” and Anthony Mangano of “NYPD Blue.”

Actor and director Ed Burns received a Creative Achievement Award, Joe Pomerico’s “Gus” won the award for Best Long Island Short Film and Sal DelGuidice’s “Long Island Uncovered” took Best Long Island Feature Film. “Jesse” garnered an Audience Award, and Alexander Etsyatse’s “Mikel’s Faith” captured the Gold Pass Award. Mike Ricigliano of Locust Valley won for Best Short Film, and Federico Castelluccio received the Best Director honor for “Lily of the Feast.” And Mitch Kase of Plainview and his cast and crew took home several awards for “True to the Heart,” including Best First Feature, Best Actor, Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress.

Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano was presented with a Benefactor of the Arts Award for his support of the film, television and commercial industries in Nassau County.

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