The love and passion for film and filmmaking in Avalon was evident during the star-studded third annual Catalina Film Festival, Sept. 18 – 22. In what is quickly becoming the “Sundance of the Pacific,” six feature-length films made their West Coast premiers with directors and cast members in attendance.
The love and passion for film and filmmaking in Avalon was evident during the star-studded third annual Catalina Film Festival, Sept. 18 – 22. In what is quickly becoming the “Sundance of the Pacific,” six feature-length films made their West Coast premiers with directors and cast members in attendance.
“This festival is getting larger and more impressive each year,” said Ann Muscat, president and CEO of the Catalina Island Conservancy, which protects and restores 88 percent of the Island through a balance of conservation, education and recreation.
“It is through the dedication and support of the community of Avalon, partners like the Catalina Film Festival—including founder Ron Truppa and co-founder Tim Kennedy—that together we are able to create such an outstanding event that also ensures that this precious island will remain a destination for today, and tomorrow,” Muscat said.
Film luminaries gracing the red carpet included Sharon Stone, Jon Favreau, Patricia Arquette, Shelley Long and Nick Cassavetes. Behind the cameras and microphones on the carpet were reporters from film industry publications, including Variety, Us Weekly, Star Magazine, Getty Images, The Movie Report, Press Pass LA, Cinemacy, RevRo Productions and LA Splash.
Avalon residents and visitors were treated to free screenings of “Bless the Beasts and the Children,” which was filmed on Catalina Island and released in 1971. The screening marked the 100th birthday of its late maker, Stanley Kramer, legendary producer, writer and director. Also presented for free was “The Magic Bracelet,” a touching film about a girl battling mitochondrial disease. And, the community thrilled to a beach showing of the original summer blockbuster, “Jaws,” directed by Steven Spielberg. Some underwater scenes for Spielberg’s classic were filmed just off Catalina.
Aspiring filmmakers also had an opportunity to sit in on various panels in the Catalina Film and TV Market with seminars on subjects such as how to formulate a great pitch and how to attract financiers and film reps.
Ron Truppa, CFF founder and executive director, said he was “ecstatic” about the growth of the festival over the past three years. “This is a non-profit event promoting Catalina’s rich film history, fostering independent film, and helping stimulate Avalon’s businesses while promoting the Island in its very best light,” Truppa said.
In addition to the CFF, Truppa has invested in Avalon with monthly Catalina Film Society screenings of independent films, which are open to the public. His Catalina Film Institute offers courses throughout the year to help foster the careers of future filmmakers while providing them workshop settings in which to create their projects.
Sunday’s award ceremony also had its own red carpet opening complete with reporters and paparazzi. Some 200 filmmakers and fans crowded the Lancer Auditorium to cheer on their favorite films.
And, the winners are: Stanley Kramer Social Artist Award: Sharon Stone
Charlie Chaplin Icon Award: Jon Favreau
Career Tribute Award: Patricia Arquette
Isla Earth™ Award of Excellence for Environmental Filmmaking: “Threatened: The Controversial Struggle of the Southern Sea Otter”
Isla Earth™ Award of Merit for Environmental Filmmaking: “Plastic Paradise: The Great Pacific Garbage Patch”
Young Filmmaker Award: Rina Goldberg for “The Magic Bracelet”
Crest Award: Bailee Madison
Majestic Award: Tony Scott
Best Animation: “StrAngel”
Best Documentary: “Go Public: A Day in the Life of an American School District”
Best Feature Film: “Yellow”
Best Short: “Impressions-xps 160”
Best Student Film: “Mirage at Zabul Province”
Best Screenplay: “Talking Pictures”
