Two-time Oscar winner Jane Campion is championing Italian director Maura Delpero’s “Vermiglio” in its bid for the International Feature Film Oscar. Campion’s enthusiastic endorsement of the film, obtained exclusively by Variety, highlights the intimate period drama’s compelling narrative and Delpero’s masterful direction.
Set in an Alpine village at the close of World War II, “Vermiglio” centers on three sisters whose lives are disrupted by the arrival of a soldier. The film, which won the Silver Lion at the Venice Film Festival, has garnered significant international acclaim following its successful festival run, including appearances at Toronto and other prestigious events. Released in the U.S. on December 25th by Sideshow and Janus Films, “Vermiglio” is Delpero’s sophomore feature, following her acclaimed debut, “Maternal,” which was set in an Argentinian refuge for teenage mothers.
In her letter to Oscar voters, Campion effusively praises the film’s aesthetic and narrative strengths: “‘Vermiglio’ has put a spell over me,” she writes. “I am a real sucker for linen cloths and modest sturdy furniture, snow, and fresh cow’s milk; the world ‘Vermiglio’ explores delights me a lot. I also feel deep appreciation for Maura Delpero’s formidable skills as a director managing a story of this scope with such steadiness and maturity. I felt held and interested in this world all the time.”
Campion further acknowledges the considerable challenges overcome in the film’s production, noting the demanding weather conditions, large cast (including numerous children), and the meticulous attention to detail: “I further realise it must have been an incredible mission to make this film; the difficulties of the weather, shooting in such cold weather and in the snow where you have to be careful of crew footsteps churning up fresh fall. And such a large cast, and so many children, all so at ease and relaxed together. That is hard to do. The crew, d.o.p. Mikhail Krichman, and cast are uniformly excellent.” Concluding her letter with unreserved admiration, Campion declares herself a “fan,” expressing excitement for Delpero’s future work.
Nominations for the 97th Academy Awards will be announced on January 17th, following the close of voting on January 12th.