Michael Cavalieri is an actor, writer and director whose film, RITORNATO, recently received a prestigious grant from the National Italian American Foundation and the Italian Sons and Daughters of America. Cavalieri’s film tells the emotional story of a man who loses all his loved ones, and sets off on a journey to revisit his past and fulfill a promise made to his dying mother. He will be shooting on location in Limina, Sicily starting July 1st. Based on true events, Ritornato is dedicated to Cavalieri’s mother, Mary, and his Grandpa Agatino, who sacrificed so much to give him and his family a chance at a better life. He hopes his film inspires other Italian Americans to write and share their stories.
Cavalieri made his feature film debut starring opposite Academy Award-winner Hilary Swank in Columbia Pictures, “The Next Karate Kid.” Since that debut, he has had supporting roles in numerous features including acclaimed director Walter Hill’s “Last Man Standing,” starring Bruce Willis and Christopher Walken. Michael has also guest starred on numerous hit TV shows including ER and NYPD BLUE.
Michael has starred in multiple films that have won film festivals all over the world dealing with the Italian American experience. LA Times Critic Kevin Thomas hailed Michael’s performance in “The Stonecutter” as “outstanding…he has terrific presence and focus. His performance lures us into this increasingly complex and provocative drama.” Cavalieri strongly believes in the positive portrayal of Italian Americans in cinema or in any walk of life, stressing Italian Americans should be able to play many diverse roles instead of the stereotypical “mafia” tough guys.
To follow Michael’s filmmaking journey, check out @ritornato_the_movie_