Italian Night at the Movies film series raises funds for youth scholarships

The Sons and Daughters of Italy Key West Lodge #2436 has partnered with the Tropic Cinema to present “Italian Night at the Movies,” a monthly film series to raise funds for the organization’s 2026 scholarship fund benefiting area High School seniors of Italian descent. Screenings take place the first Wednesday of each month through May 2026.

The next installment takes place Wednesday, Jan. 7 with the 1968 romantic comedy “Buona Sera, Mrs. Campbell,” directed by Melvin Frank and starring Gina Lollobridida.  

Lollobrigida plays Carla Campbell, a once-frightened girl who has reinvented herself as one of San Forino, Italy's leading citizens. For years she has received support checks from three American GIs she met during WWII—each of whom believe he's the father of her daughter Gia (Janet Margolin). Trouble brews when the 23rd Regiment schedules a 20-year reunion in San Forino and all three “fathers” are on their way to town, eager to meet their daughter—to Mrs. Campbell’s mounting panic and Gia’s eager anticipation.

With its excellent cast that includes Telly Savalas, Phil Silvers, Peter Lawford, Shelley Winters and Lee Grant, “Buona Sera, Mrs. Campbell” is a fun, friendly and very entertaining comedy widely credited as an inspiration for the hit musical, “Mama Mia!”

Sponsored in part by the Florida Keys Council of the Arts, the evening includes a “taste of Italy” in the form of complimentary Duetto’s Pizza served before the film. Doors open at 5:30 pm; the film begins at 6:15. Guests can also participate in a 50/50 chance drawing and a raffle for a set of 4 Italian plates and bowls. Italian wines will be available for purchase at the Tropic Cinema concession. 
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Tickets are $20 per person and are available online at TropicCinema.com or day of at the Tropic Cinema, 416 Eaton St., Key West. Series tickets are also available: purchase 4 films and receive the fifth at half price, for a total $90.