Santa Barbara International Film Festival Screens Free Family Friendly Movies

The Santa Barbara International Film Festival is screening free family films on the weekends of the festival.

Thousands lined up outside the Arlington Theatre Saturday for free screenings of “Big Hero 6” and “How to Train Your Dragon 2.”

The audience was treated to free popcorn and soda.

“For us it’s all about the kids. It’s just a great opportunity to get everybody out and have some fun,” said Geoff Coulehan of Santa Barbara.

Executive Director Roger Durling was on hand to welcome the crowd and introduce “How to Train Your Dragon 2.”

The free movie program provides local families on tight budgets with an opportunity to see films and be a part of the festival.

The program is very personal for Durling.

“I grew up in Panama and my family didn’t have much money and I have a big passion for films. My mother worked several jobs and my dad did several jobs as well in order to fulfill my need to go to the movies,” Durling said.

Durling said he is proud to be able to pay it forward.

“It’s fulfilling. It crystallizes the mission of the film festival and what my role is in all of it.” Durling said.

Here are the free films being screened at the Arlington Theatre.

BIG HERO 6 – Saturday, Jan. 31 at 9:00 a.m.
HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON 2 – Saturday, Jan. 31 at 11:30 a.m.
THE BOXTROLLS – Sunday, Feb. 1 at 9:00 a.m.
THE LEGO MOVIE – Saturday, Feb. 7 at 9:00 a.m.