Daniel Day-Lewis accepts Montecito Award

For the third night of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Daniel Day-Lewis was presented the Montecito Award.

Festival Director Roger Durling called Saturday night a great accomplishment.

More than 300 feet of red carpet lined the the walkway into the Arlington Theater where more than 2,200 people waited to hear about Day-Lewis’ career and achievements from the award winning actor himself.

Before he walked in, the usually shy Day-Lewis made it a point to take pictures and sign pieces of paper handed to him by his adorning fans. Hundred of people lined up to see the man who portrayed President Abraham Lincoln in Steven Spielberg’s latest film.

“I’m delighted to be here, I must say. I’m slightly nervous about, I think I have to sit through watching clips of my films which is not something I would normally do,” said Day-Lewis with a laugh.

Lincoln co-star Sally Field, presented the film festival’s Montecito Award to Day-Lewis.

“I adore him. I would do anything for him. So, I’m here to be with him in this lovely moment,” Field told NewsChannel 3.

“I’m delighted she’s doing that. She’s a great girl,” said Day-Lewis.

Santa Barbara Film Festival Director Roger Durling called the award ceremony his greatest achievement in the decade he’s been running the show in Santa Barbara.

“For 10 years I’ve wanted to have Daniel Day Lewis. He’s the greatest living actor working in cinema today,” said Durling.

For those who couldn’t get tickets to Saturday’s event, there is much more film festival to come. There is a free showing of ParaNorman on Sunday at 10 a.m. at the Arlington which includes free popcorn and soda.