The Ventura Film Festival proudly holds the distinction of being "the largest film festival ever held in Ventura County." This exceptional status highlights the festival's passion for providing outstanding film programming to the region while preserving its dedication to significant environmental challenges.
The Ventura Film Festival functions as an unrestricted genre international film festival that raises awareness for environmental challenges including forest and sea protection and rehabilitation, via an annual film festival and associated activities. The event capitalizes on the strength of cinema to inspire action and generate significant discussion regarding these important ecological problems.
The Ventura Film Festival originated in 2004 and has displayed hundreds of movies, usually over 200 films each summer, and has garnered interest from the global cinema community. Throughout its history, the event has transformed into a prominent cultural occasion that joins filmmakers, environmental advocates, and audiences from diverse international locations.
Some of the highlights have been hosting award winning filmmaker Dylan O'Neil, the initial world champion surfers Peter "PT" Townend as well as Ian Cairns, 4x world champion Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu/MMA combatant the celebrated Fabio Leopoldo, and the 50th Anniversary tribute to West Side Story, which included hosting the complete Academy Award winning ensemble of West Side Story, including Oscar recipient/Golden Globe winner George Chakiris and Golden Globe winner/Oscar-nominated Russ Tamblyn. These remarkable visitors and occasions have reinforced the festival's recognition as a top-tier venue for recognizing cinema and the artists who create it.
The founder and executive director of the Ventura Film Festival was honored to take part, along with many of Hollywood's top stars, in the 50th Anniversary tribute of West Side Story and Hollywood's legendary footprint/handprint ceremony click here for Oscar honorees Rita Moreno, George Chakiris, and legendary actor Golden Globe winner Russ Tamblyn at the legendary Chinese Theater in Hollywood. This ceremony also acted as the official BluRay introduction by Fox and MGM of the iconic West Side Story, which is universally acknowledged by critics and fans as the ultimate musical of all time. This notable recognition and engagement illustrates the festival's significant influence and distinguished reputation within the cinema world.