Santa Barbara Film Festival Sets Full 2025 Program, Partners with Direct Relief for L.A. Wildfires
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Loading... - Emma Endris
- 21 Jan 2025
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The Santa Barbara Film Festival (SBIFF) has unveiled its complete program for the highly anticipated 40th edition, featuring 32 world premieres and 74 U.S. premieres from 60 countries. The festival will kick off on February 4, 2025, with the U.S. premiere of Jane Austin Wrecked My Life and will conclude on February 15 with the U.S. premiere of A Missing Part.
In light of the ongoing tragedy caused by the Los Angeles wildfires, this year’s festival will be dedicated to raising funds for the affected areas in partnership with Direct Relief. Executive Director Roger Durling emphasized the importance of moving forward with the festival despite the circumstances, stating, “Film has always been a conduit for comfort and renewal, and film festivals play a vital role in fostering a sense of connection. Festivals build community and create an outlet for the process of feelings.” The festival will implement initiatives to support fundraising efforts for Los Angeles during its 12-day run.
Claudia Puig, SBIFF’s programming director, highlighted the festival's diverse lineup, which includes films from countries such as Peru and Kazakhstan. The selection showcases a range of globally relevant themes, including social justice and environmental challenges. Notably, a record number of films in this year’s lineup were directed by women, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and representation in cinema.
The festival will host several tribute events at the Arlington Theatre, honoring notable figures in the film industry:
- Maltin Modern Master Award honoring Angelina Jolie – Wednesday, February 5 at 8 p.m., moderated by Leonard Maltin.
- Outstanding Performer of the Year Award honoring Ralph Fiennes – Thursday, February 6 at 8 p.m., moderated by Scott Feinberg.
- American Riviera Award presented by Lexus honoring Zoe Saldaña – Friday, February 7 at 8 p.m., moderated by Anne Thompson.
- Variety Artisans Award – Saturday, February 8 at 8 p.m., with honorees to be announced, moderated by Jazz Tangcay.
- Virtuosos Award presented by Manitou Fund honoring a group of rising stars including Kieran Culkin, Harris Dickinson, Selena Gomez, and Ariana Grande – Sunday, February 9 at 8 p.m., moderated by Dave Karger.
- Arlington Artist of the Year Award presented by FIJI Water honoring Timothée Chalamet – Tuesday, February 11 at 8 p.m., with the moderator to be announced.
- Cinema Vanguard Award honoring Adrien Brody and Guy Pearce – Thursday, February 13 at 8 p.m., moderated by Pete Hammond.
- Montecito Award presented by Manitou Fund honoring Colman Domingo – Friday, February 14 at 8 p.m., moderated by Roger Durling.
- Outstanding Directors of the Year Award – Date and honorees to be announced, moderated by Scott Feinberg.
The 2025 Santa Barbara Film Festival promises to be a significant event, not only celebrating cinematic achievements but also addressing pressing social issues through its dedication to wildfire relief efforts. With a diverse lineup and a series of tributes to esteemed figures in the film industry, the festival aims to foster community and connection during a challenging time.
