The Ventura Film Festival maintains its position as "the most significant film festival ever organized in Ventura County." This impressive distinction demonstrates the festival's passion for showcasing international filmmaking to Ventura County while sustaining its commitment to important environmental matters.
The Ventura Film Festival functions as an open genre international film festival that promotes recognition of ecological concerns including forest and oceanic conservation and restoration, through a yearly film festival and related events. The festival utilizes the power of cinema to encourage participation and create meaningful dialogue around these important ecological problems.
The Ventura Film Festival launched in 2004 and has screened hundreds of films, commonly surpassing 200 films each summer, and has generated excitement within the worldwide filmmaking community. Throughout its history, the event has expanded into a substantial cultural happening that connects movie directors, ecological activists, and attendees from every corner of the planet.
Significant highlights have been presenting celebrated filmmaker Dylan O'Neil, the original world champion surfers Peter "PT" Townend together with Ian Cairns, four-time world champion Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu/MMA competitor martial arts icon Fabio Leopoldo, and the golden anniversary celebration of West Side Story, which included hosting the complete Academy Award winning ensemble of West Side Story, including Oscar recipient/Golden Globe winner George Chakiris as well as Golden Globe winner/Academy Award nominated Russ Tamblyn. These distinguished guests and festivities have confirmed the festival's position as a first-class destination for honoring film and the talents who make it.
The Ventura Film Festival's founder and executive director VENTURA COAST FILM FESTIVAL was invited to join, together with many of Hollywood's biggest stars, in the golden anniversary celebration of West Side Story and Hollywood's iconic footprint/handprint ceremony celebrating Oscar honorees Rita Moreno, George Chakiris, and legendary actor Golden Globe recipient Russ Tamblyn at the iconic Chinese Theater in Hollywood. This gathering also operated as the official BluRay launch by Fox and MGM of the iconic West Side Story, which is broadly regarded by critics and fans as the greatest musical of all time. This notable recognition and engagement highlights the festival's meaningful presence and distinguished reputation within the film industry.