Adam Mucci to Receive Garden State Film Festival Rising Star Award

Hasbrouck Heights raised actor i, of HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire” and numerous film titles has been named the 2012 recipient of the Garden State Film Festival’s Robert Pastorelli Rising Star Award.

The award is named after the late actor and festival co-founder Robert Pastorelli; and is presented each year to a New Jersey native who has succeeded in acting through hard work and determination, the GSFF stated in a release.

Mucci will be presented with the award at the GSFF 2012 Awards Dinner set for March 25 at the Crystal Point Yacht Club in Point Pleasant. Mucci will also join past recipients of the Robert Pastorelli Rising Star Award at a March 22 Tribute to Robert Pastorelli at the Paramount Theatre in Asbury Park. 

The committee that selects the Robert Pastorelli Rising Star Award winner includes Gwen Pastorelli, sister of Robert.  It looks for candidates with a progression of work in theater, commercials, television, and film.

“We are delighted to present Adam with this award in memory of my brother,” said Gwen Pastorelli.  “He completely embodies the profile and spirit in which the award was established, plying determination and hard work to succeed in the creative yet competitive business of acting.” Prior recipients include Ronnie Marmo, Kevin Interdanoto and Samantha Ivers.

In addition to his role on “Boardwalk Empire” Mucci’s other television credits include “Blue Bloods,” “Law and Order,” “Third Watch” and “The Sopranos.”  As a “Boardwalk Empire” cast member, Mucci has been recognized by the Screen Actors Guild with its 2011 and 2012 Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series.

Mucci appeared in the acclaimed films “Revolutionary Road” and “Little Children” with Kate Winslet; and has performed with Al Pacino, Johnny Depp and Will Ferrell. 

His breakout performance was as Agent Harold Reinecke in Michael Mann's “Public Enemies.”  Mucci has also worked with Martin Scorsese, Sam Mendes, Barry Levinson and Adam McKay. 

Editor's note: This information was submitted by the Garden State Film Festival.