Santa Barbara International Film Festival
Santa Barbara, California is a resort paradise that continually attracts visitors
there for the winning star tributes, non-stop screenings, food dining feasts
and round about parties.
Speaking of film festivals, the Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) has become a world-class whirlwind happening. When it’s festival time those anticipated Oscar winners, esteemed
and new filmmakers and avid film lovers converge on State Street for 11 days
of flicks, fun in the sun and night time movie star dazzle. While others are
huddling together and freezing across the nation, everyone in sunny Santa
Barbara is thrilled to be enjoying the Santa Barbara International Film Festival.
There’s no denying that Santa Barbara loves films and everything film related,
including reel education. This summer the recent family friendly Silver Screen
Celebration that kicked off the spirit of the famed Santa Barbara International Film
Festival (SBIFF) approaching 29 years in 2014.
Fairbanks’ Zorro
Douglas Fairbanks’ 1920 classic silent film of “The Mask of Zorro” was screened at the historic Arlington Theatre, as part of the 2014 film fundraiser. This is the site of SBIFF red carpet festival events.
Roger Durling, the Festival’s Executive Director, has brought the best of times to
to the SBIFF from award-winning actors, filmmakers and films to the yearly free
children’s outreach programs. Mike’s Field Trip to the Movies welcomes students,
to view select films during the SBIFF, student filmmakers participate in the 10-10-10
Santa Barbara residents.
Clad as a swashbuckling masked Zorro, Roger Durling gave a warm welcome to the Santa Barbara film crowd.
With the collaboration of the
Santa Barbara Theatre Organ Society, organist Adam Aceto’s exciting score brought musical life to the “Zorro” film with his accompaniment on the rare Wonder Morton Pipe Organ, one of five in existence. A captive audience watched the adventures of the feared masked man of early California.
Zorro, actually a wealthy man, protected the poor, while in disguise and fought to rid California of corruption, as he sought the affections of the beautiful Lolita.
Many masked Zorros arrived at the beautiful Santa Barbara Historical Museum
Historic Attire
for the masquerade bash, following the silent film, joined by the ladies adorned in smashing attire reflecting the life and times early California. Guests were treated to tastings from Santa Barbara’s top chefs and caterers i.e. Olio e Limon, Arlington Tavern, Chocolate Maya, World Cuisine Express and so many more.
A Fencing Challenge
Tasty treats from Chef Brenda of the SB Art Museum and Cosmo from Olio e Limon. It was a sweet way to boost SBIFF enthusiasm through live entertainment, great food, local wine and beer
plus numerous photo opportunities.
Suddenly the masquerade crowd experienced a dramatic sword fight duel in the courtyard between a Zorro character,
Nick Holmes and a villain challenger, Allen Irwin. The duel staged by the
Presidio Fencing Club augmented the ambience of the event as excited masked guests looked on.
A regular feature of the SBIFF is the students 10-10-10 competition for enrollees in Santa Barbara high schools and colleges. They are invited to submit a
10 page screen writing sample or a five minute directorial filmmaking endeavor.
Ten writers are selected to write a 10 minute script, which are matched with ten
filmmakers and during the SBIFF, the students shoot and complete their 10
minute short film, which is then screened by industry professionals and SBIFF
representatives.
SBIFF Gala at SB Historic Museum
The winning films are chosen and finally screened for the festival
at the closing awards event. Perhaps, it is here is where many careers are launched.
As the SBIFF continues its success, Santa Barbara youngsters appreciate films
29th annual SBIFF will take place January 30-February 9, 2014.
or call 805-963-0023 for the latest news regarding this amazing film festival.
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About the Author:
Barbara Singer is a veteran travel and entertainment journalist based in Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. She has been a columnist for Beverly Hills Today, Passions International, Boulevard Magazine, Irish Arts & Entertainment and more. She has attended many film festivals, including Cannes, Montreal, Deauville, Santa Barbara, and L.A. Film Festival, and also contributes to many online travel magazines. She is a member of Film Independent, IWOSC, IFW&TWA and NATJA.
