PROVIDENCE (October 14, 2005) – Pro boxer Gary “Tiger” Balletto plays a starring role in the documentary movie, Sweet Dreams, directed by Eric Scott Latek and premiering October 28 on a state-of-the art high definition DLP projector at the Columbus Theatre in Providence. Former IBU and EBA lightweight champion Balletto (29-2-2, 25 KOs), 30, has been idle from the ring for nearly two years, but he isn’t retired.
Documented during a period of more than three years, Sweet Dreams is a real life story of two Italian-Americans, Balletto and Derek Fleming.
Part of the storyline is Balletto’s efforts, after fellow boxer Bobby Tomasello’s death in the ring five years ago, to help unionize the sport so fighters gain benefits, health insurance, and future jobs outside of boxing. Balletto presently serves as the New England representative for J.A.B., the boxing union associated with the Teamsters. The movie also follows Gary at home with his family, running his construction business, training and boxing.
“This movie is about coming of age and the Italian-American image,” Balletto said. “It’s about two real people and the real things going on in their lives that happen to everyday people. Forming a boxing union is a part of the movie. I’ve never been more excited about an event, not even in one of my fights. Not only is it about my life; it’s my real life, no acting.”
Derek is a part-time bartender and street bookie who wants to become a fulltime “wanna-be” wiseguy. He dreams of upholding a “badass” reputation, but faces real hardships due to his gentle, soft-spoken persona and sometime quirky ways.
Sweet Dreams dismisses the stereotypical “wiseguy” image that glorifies today’s younger generation and shows what it’s really like to be tough. It is an astonishing film about finding destiny, inspiration, faith, fatherhood, human spirit, the role of friends and family, workingman’s ethics, and perseverance. The end result is a story that transcends boxing and organized crime, as well as being a documentary that is beyond conventions.
Tickets for the Oct. 28th Sweet Dreams premiere are priced at $40.00. Doors open at 5:30 PM with the showing commencing at 6:30 PM. A reception follows immediately after the premiere at The Providence Biltmore Hotel, Grand Ball Room, 11 Dorrance Street in Providence. There will be music and a special live performance by GRUPO ONDAS, showcasing the Dynamic Martial Art of Capoeira.
To order tickets or for more information contact Letitia at 401.300.6605 or go to www.sweetdreamsmovie.com/tickets