From ancient Rome to soccer and delicious pasta, all things Italian are coming to the big screen when the 2022 Lismore Italian Film Festival kicks off this April.

A self confessed Italophile, Lismore Friendship Festival committee member is so passionate about bringing the movie extravaganza to local screen that she dressed up as an Italian soccer fan to rev up the local excitement.

She's especially looking forward to the Pavarotti movie night - with an antipasto supper, Prosecco and live music.

"We invite everyone to come dressed up for the occasion," she said. "Come dressed as your favourite opera character to watch Pavarotti - and win a prize!

"The cinema staff Staff will be dressed up and the place decorated too and local accordion player Val Wills will be playing.

"Benvenuti e tutti – Everyone is welcome."

Held at the Lismore Cinemas on Keen Street over two days on Saturday, April 2 and Sunday, April 3, the bilingual film festival offers many historic and contemporary films.

"We have a popular program and have already had great feedback about it," Ros said.

"It's an opportunity to get out of isolation and have a good weekend out

"The festival gives us a chance to interact with each other while having a good time."

"Other film festival highlights include a documentary about Elena Ferrante, the author.

"Called 'Ferrante Fever' the movie has already attracted the interest of local book clubs who are reading her books.

There's also the movie 'The Promise' which is in English, starring Aussie actors Paul Mercurio and Tina Arena ozzie actors.

Then there's Pinnochio - with lots of film techniques such as live action cartoon magic.

Ros said you can also use your Discover NSW $25 vouchers to buy tickets, so buy them now at https://www.eventcinemas.com.au/Cinema/Lismore

The 2022 program includes:

Saturday, April 2

• 12pm - Ferrante Fever 

• 2pm - Promised

• 6.30pm – Pavarotti - Ron Howard's inspiring documentary. 

Sunday, April 3

• 12pm - 10 Days without Mamma 

• 2.30pm - Classic movie: 8 1/2 

• 5.30pm – Pinocchio