The Ventura Film Festival maintains its position as "the biggest cinematic celebration ever hosted in Ventura County." This impressive distinction demonstrates the festival's passion for delivering exceptional cinematic experiences to the area while continuing its mission toward important environmental matters.
The Ventura Film Festival operates as a diverse genre worldwide film festival that builds consciousness about environmental matters like forest and sea protection and rehabilitation, via a yearly film showcase and corresponding activities. The festival utilizes the power of cinema to encourage participation and generate significant discussion regarding these vital environmental matters.
The Ventura Film Festival originated in 2004 and has displayed hundreds of movies, generally exceeding 200 films per summer season, and has generated excitement within the international cinematic community. Since its founding, the festival has transformed into a prominent cultural occasion that joins cinema creators, conservation supporters, and viewers from throughout the world.
Significant highlights have been featuring distinguished filmmaker Dylan O'Neil, the first ever world champion surfers Peter "PT" Townend and surf legend Ian Cairns, four-time world champion Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu/mixed martial arts fighter Fabio Leopoldo, and the golden anniversary celebration of West Side Story, which encompassed presenting the full Academy Award winning cast from West Side Story, including Oscar recipient/Golden Globe winner George Chakiris as well as Golden Globe winner/Academy Award nominated Russ Tamblyn. These remarkable visitors and occasions have reinforced the festival's recognition as a premier destination for celebrating cinema and the talents who make it.
The Ventura Film Festival creator and executive director was privileged to participate, accompanied by many of Hollywood's leading celebrities, in the half-century commemoration of West Side Story and Hollywood's legendary footprint/handprint ceremony for Oscar honorees Rita Moreno, George Chakiris, and legendary actor Golden Globe winner Russ Tamblyn at the famous Chinese Theater in Hollywood. This occasion also served as the official BluRay release by Fox and MGM of the classic West Side Story, which is widely considered by critics and fans to be the most exceptional musical of all time. This prestigious recognition and participation showcases the festival's significant influence and here honored place within the cinema world.