Italian Filmmaker Brings Free Monthly Film Festival To NoHo

Italian filmmaker and his Hollywood production company bring comedy and culture to North Hollywood with a free monthly short film festival premiering on Sept. 16 at 8 p.m. and continuing monthly.

Guests of Monday night’s red carpet premiere of “Shorts-n-Stuff” short film festival can expect an evening of comedy; featuring five comedy-themed short films and four local comedians who will perform live.

Italian-born actor, performer and filmmaker Leonardo “Leo” Foti made Los Angeles his new home about five years ago. “He has been recognized as an international, unconventional and fearless artist who moves effortlessly between acting, filmmaking, musical theatre, improvisation and writing,” according to his representatives. His films have been shown at the Hollywood Film Festival, Universal Studios, The Sarasota Film Festival and Cannes Short Film Corner.

As Creative Director of 7-Waves, an entertainment company, Foti produces the short film festival in association with Tanjareen Martin and Citric Cinema Inc. The film festival highlights the work of local filmmakers, with the idea that the creative minds in the local community can be brought together in a causal setting and illicit collaboration.

Most recently the production company began performances and filming of a multi-faceted project called “Extravaganza,” a backstage look at life in a cabaret club, in Los Angeles. It is an episodic series, reality show, and live stage show and began filming in March 2013.

“Bringing people together has been a focus of 7-Waves since its inception,” Foti said. “I believe it’s important to help provide a space for people to meet each other and to collaborate on projects. “

Skinny’s Lounge is located at 4923 Lankershim Boulevard in North Hollywood. Red carpet begins at 8 p.m. with the first screening scheduled for 8:30 p.m. Admission is FREE, and guests must be 21 or older.

For more information about 7-Waves, Leo Foti or the monthly “Shorts-n-Stuff” short film festival, visit www.7-waves.com. To RSVP for the event, send an email to info@7-waves.com.