On March 7 the U.S. Embassy in Argentina –in parternship with Catmandu Producciones (Juan José Campanella’s production company) – organized a special 3-D screening of “Metegol” to commemorate the film’s premiere at the Miami International Film Festival on March 15. Acting Chargé d’ Affaires Daniel Perrone gave welcoming remarks. The film’s director, Juan José Campanella, attended the screening to talk about the film and answer questions from over 180 attendees. The audience included Youth Alumni, Access Program students, CIC and Universidad del Cine students and Austral University students.
Inspired by the short story Memoirs of a Right Wing (Memorias de un wing derecho) by Argentine writer Roberto Fontanarrosa, “Metegol” (or “Foosball”) is the story of young Amadeo, an introverted boy obsessed with table soccer that tries to save his small town after his long-time rival arrives to build a mega-stadium. Amadeo’s foosball team figures are magically brought to life to help him in his quest.
Before “Metegol”, Juan José Campanella directed episodes for different American TV series such as “House,” “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” “Law & Order: Criminal Intent” and “30 Rock” and his film “El Secreto de sus Ojos” (2009), Campanella’s fourth feature film and won the Academy Award for best foreign language film in 2010. Campanella’s experience as a director, as well as his expertise, is a perfect example of how cultural and professional exchange in the arts can help build bridges between Argentina and the United States, and strengthen the links between both countries.
