Demi Moore Shines at Santa Barbara Film Festival, Talks Oscar Nomination & Career Evolution

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — Demi Moore fans had the opportunity to watch several of her films at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival.

On Sunday afternoon, the Arlington Theatre was packed for a free screening of The Substance.

Moore's leading role in the horror and science fiction film earned her a nomination for her first Academy Award.

Following the film, Moore took a seat on stage for a Q&A with festival director Roger Durling.

She spoke about receiving long-overdue recognition for her talent, which Durling said she is finally appreciating.

"People can't appreciate you unless you appreciate yourself. When you hold and value yourself for all that you are—as you are, in whatever moment that is—then the rest of the world will follow," Moore said. "It doesn’t go the other way around."

She added that no one can "throw you under the bus unless you throw yourself under the bus."

"Maybe I just wasn’t ready for it yet—to hold all that I am—until this very moment," Moore said. "So, I am just grateful that that reflection is being reflected back to me. So, thank you, thank you."

The audience responded with a huge round of applause and a standing ovation.

Moore also discussed being the highest-paid actress early in her career and how that impacted the reception of some of her films, which she noted seem to be better received now.

Many attendees skipped Super Bowl Sunday parties to see Moore, and some believe she has a strong chance of winning the Oscar.

They will be rooting for her at the Academy Awards on Sunday, March 2, on ABC.

For more information about the festival, visit https://sbiff.org/