Paola Cortellesi takes on an Italian folklore character with a feminist twist in this offering from director Michele Soavi (The Goodbye Kiss, 2006) which was a surprise box office smash hit in Italy this year.
By day, Paola (Cortellesi) is an ordinary school teacher, beloved by her pupils. But at night she undergoes a transformation and becomes La Befana, the Christmas Witch – a magical creature who brings gifts to good children. But Paola has an enemy: Mr. Johnny is an evil toymaker whose childhood was ruined by the Witch’s failure to bring him the gift he wanted. Seeking revenge, Mr. Johnny kidnaps Paola. A group of six of Paola’s brave pupils who discovered their teacher's secret identity will undertake an extraordinary adventure to rescue her. But can they save Paola and Christmas, before it’s too late? A feast for the eyes and heart, The Legend of the Christmas Witch is pure fun for the whole family.
Director
Michele Soavi
Born in Milan in 1957, Michele Soavi is a prolific Italian filmmaker and screenwriter best known for his work in the horror film genre, working alongside directors such as Dario Argento, Terry Gilliam, and Lucio Fulci. He has been credited for almost single-handedly continuing the tradition of Italian horror in the 1990s.
