300 films. 15 screens. 53,000 festival goers. If you’re a movie fan of any genre, you will definitely get your fix at this year’s Newport Beach Film Festival. Dedicated to a diverse platform, the festival will feature films from emerging and seasoned filmmakers. And don’t forget about the legendary after-parties where the entertainment has just begun!
What to expect
The festival attracts an eclectic group of people. It’s a melting pot of Orange County locals, Hollywood celebrities, indie producers and actors, and a diverse fan base. Past notable attendees have included comedian Will Ferrell and actor Jeremy Renner, famous for his role as Hawkeye on the The Avengers .
The buzz
As awareness increases over how our country’s food supply is grown, it’s timely that the festival will feature the documentary Farmland. Oscar-winning director James Moll gives us some insight into his latest film: “Most Americans have never stepped foot on a farm or ranch or even talked to the people who grow and raise the food we eat. Farmland will take an intimate look at the lives of farmers and ranchers in their 20’s, all of whom are now responsible for running their farming business.”
Definitely diverse
Beginning Sunday, April 27th, the Festival will showcase a variety of international films. Sunday evening will feature the Irish film Life’s a Breeze. Monday’s showcase features a Pacific Rim theme. The audience will enjoy offerings such as the Japanese film Unforgiven and the Australian production Goddess .
Worth the wait
Jon Favreau’s highly anticipated film Chef will be featured on closing night. The film includes a
star-studded cast including Robert Downey, Jr., Scarlett Johansson, and Dustin Hoffman. Chef is a comedy based on Carl Casper, a chef who lost his job at a renowned eatery and finds success in the wildly popular food truck business. The story of Casper’s winding road to success coupled with Favreau’s cinematic talents is sure to enthrall any audience.
Planning ahead
The Newport Beach Film Festival is the largest of its kind in Southern California. With thousands of attendees, wait times to gain admission to your theater could be longer than expected. And do prepare for the weather. Orange County is popular for mildly sunny afternoons and cold evenings. The Festival mainly caters to a mature audience; therefore, it is recommended that children only attend movies designated for their age group.
The details
Tickets go on sale April 1st. Pricing and other information can be found on the official website: newportbeachfilmfest.com.
