THE actor Stanley Tucci has appeared at a film festival in St Andrews.
As part of the Sands: International Film Festival of St Andrews, Tucci’s directorial debut from 1996, Big Night, was screened on Saturday.
Tucci co-starred in the comedy-drama, which follows two Italian immigrant brothers trying to keep their restaurant on the Jersey Shore afloat.
He also co-wrote the movie with his cousin Joseph Tropiano and directed the film alongside fellow actor Campbell Scott.
It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival where it went on to be nominated for the Grand Jury Prize.
Ahead of the screening Tucci said it was “fantastic” be welcomed to St Andrews.
“I’ve never really been to Scotland before; I’ve only ever been to Edinburgh for about a day and a night.
“But Joe [Russo] was telling me about the festival and it just sounds fantastic. And the fact it’s in an academic environment, that’s really important.
“I’m excited that people still like the film and it holds up – because films, sometimes, they don’t.
“I’m excited to hear what their reactions are because I made it before most of these people were born.”
Following the screening Tucci took part in a Q&A with Key Festival Supporter and Avengers: Endgame director Joe Russo.
Now into its second year, the three-day festival seeks to highlight international contemporary and classic cinema and provide an opportunity for Scottish filmmakers to connect with leading figures in the industry.
It has close ties to the film studies department at the University of St Andrews.
Russo, who also attended last year’s festival, said he was “proud” to be welcomed back.
“St Andrews is a town very close to my heart," he said.
"I’m proud to be a part of something that gives back to this incredibly welcoming community.”
