Santa Barbara International Film Festival begins on a rainy night
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The Santa Barbara International Film Festival kicked off its 40th year with a raining and electric night.
The Arlington Theatre marquee shined bright at night, and the rain gives the entire block a cinematic glow.
SBIFF Director Roger Durling introduced the opening night film, Jane Austen Wrecked My Life, after sharing with the packed house how important films were to him while growing up in Panama.
The film, directed by Laura Piani, is named after the witty English novelist known for her social commentary.
Chrissie Haynes, an ambassador and Education First exchange student from England, is an Austen fan.
"Partly because I grew up where she lived for a portion of her life, so it's super cool," Haynes said. "Also, just because I love literature and I love her work, and seeing the translation of literature to film is super interesting to me."
Actors and filmmakers traveled from out of town to enjoy opening night and attend their screenings.
Magic Hour stars Miriam Shor and Josh Stamberg walked the red carpet with their director, Jacqueline Christy.
They didn’t let a little—or a lot—of rain dampen their excitement.
"I love seeing movies in the rain, coming up and eating popcorn," Shor said. "But I came in from New York today, and I thought, 'Oh, it's going to be sunny.' So far from it. But it ain't snowing, so I'm happy."
Fans recognized Shor from her comedic role in Younger on Netflix.
Magic Hour was inspired by Christy’s life.
"This is a movie about second chances. It's about reclaiming your lost dream," Christy said. "And it's something that I feel anybody can relate to."
Magic Hour screens Wednesday at 5 p.m. and Thursday at 8:20 a.m. at the new Santa Barbara Film Center, formerly known as Fiesta Five Theatre on State Street.
More stars will walk the red carpet over the next 11 days of film screenings and tributes.
Honorees include Angelina Jolie, Ralph Fiennes, Zoë Saldaña, Timothée Chalamet, Adrien Brody, Guy Pearce, Colman Domingo, and more.
Some have been to Santa Barbara before, while others have homes in the area.
The tribute recipients include past Oscar winners and current nominees.
During the opening night after-party, the marquee was updated to read "Angelina Jolie."
There is something for everyone and every budget, including free screenings and seminars for film enthusiasts and up-and-coming filmmakers.
Volunteers, known as ambassadors, are on hand to answer questions.
Jerry and Judy Headley have volunteered for more than two decades and have one of the best spots in front of the Arlington Theatre.
"Ask people what is good, and get out and get to the movies because they are all probably pretty good," Jerry Headley said.
"Get online and get the SBIFF app," Judy Headley added.
The SBIFF poster promoting this year's festival was created by Mary Heebner, who studied art at the University of California, Santa Barbara.
It represents resurrection.
The choice seems fitting, as the festival has partnered with Direct Relief to assist in recovery efforts following the devastating L.A. fires.
The festival runs through Feb. 15.
For screening and tribute ticket information, visit www.SBIFF.org.
