THE SANTA BARBARA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2025

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From February 4 to February 15, 2025, the charming coastal city of Santa Barbara will transform into a cinephile’s paradise as it hosts the 40th Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF). For 11 days, the American Rivera rolls out the red carpet to celebrate the art of filmmaking with an unforgettable lineup of film screenings, celebrity tributes, panel discussions, and glamorous after-parties. If you’ve ever dreamed of mingling with Oscar contenders or soaking in the magic of Hollywood, this is your chance to experience it in a city rich with cinematic history.

The official poster for SBIFF 2025 in pinks, yellows and blacks, with the words '40' and 'Film' prominent.

A City Steeped in Film History

Santa Barbara is often called the original "Hollywood," thanks to its deep ties to the film industry. In 1910, the city became home to California’s first major movie studio, the American Film Manufacturing Company, affectionately known as “Flying A” studios. This pioneering studio produced nearly a thousand silent films, cementing Santa Barbara’s place in cinematic history. Over the years, the city has served as a filming location for numerous movies and TV productions, while also hosting some of the industry’s most celebrated events.

SBIFF pays homage to this legacy by attracting award-winning filmmakers, actors, students, and devoted moviegoers from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned film enthusiast or a casual fan, the festival offers something for everyone, all against the backdrop of Santa Barbara’s stunning coastal beauty.

SBIFF’s Rich History

With a history spanning over three decades, SBIFF has evolved into one of the most respected film festivals since its inception. Its legacy is marked by a commitment to showcasing outstanding films and honoring the best in the industry. Today, SBIFF has become one of the leading film festivals in the United States – attracting 100,000 attendees over 11 days dedicated to engaging, enriching, and inspiring people through the power of film.

A male actor gazing into the eyes of a female actor who holds an open umbrella in a scene from the movie Jane Austen Wrecked My Life.

Variety of Films

The opening night spotlight shines on the film Jane Austen Wrecked My Life, a captivating French romantic comedy directed by the acclaimed Laura Piani. This delightful film, masterfully adapted from the beloved novel, sets the stage for an unforgettable Film Festival in an unforgettable city.

SBIFF is renowned for curating a diverse and thought-provoking selection of films, spanning feature films, documentaries, short films, and international cinema. Each year, the festival transforms Santa Barbara into a global hub for storytellers, filmmakers, and cinephiles, fostering a deep appreciation for the art of cinema.

SBIFF is committed to celebrating the richness of global storytelling. It entertains and inspires, promotes inclusivity, and amplifies voices from every corner of the world. It’s a showcase of creativity that connects cultures, sparks conversations, and honors the power of film to bridge differences and unite us all.

Black and white image of the Arlington Theater marquee at night.

SBIFF Event Locations

The Santa Barbara International Film Festival takes full advantage of the city’s rich cinematic resources, with events and screenings held in some of its most iconic venues. Here are a few highlights:

The Arlington Theatre: This historic, Spanish Colonial Revival-style theater is the festival’s crown jewel, hosting many of the marquee events and celebrity tributes.
The Riviera Theatre: Beloved by locals, this theater provides a more intimate setting for film screenings and discussions.
SBIFF’s Film Center: The state-of-the-art Film Center, previously known as the Fiesta Five Theater Downtown, has been transformed into a dynamic, year-round destination for film enthusiasts and the central hub of the annual Film Festival.

Each venue contributes to the festival’s unique charm and enhances the immersive experience.

See the Stars

One of the most anticipated aspects of SBIFF is the opportunity to see Hollywood’s brightest stars up close. The celebrity tribute events are among the festival’s most popular programs, offering fans a rare chance to witness candid, unscripted conversations with some of the industry’s most talented performers.

Angelina Jolie, star of the biographical psychological drama Maria, will be honored with the prestigious Maltin Modern Master Award, while Zoe Saldaña, known for her role in the musical crime comedy Emilia Pérez, is set to receive the esteemed American Riviera Award. Ralph Fiennes, currently captivating audiences in Edward Berger's political thriller Conclave from Focus Features, has been chosen for the Outstanding Performer of the Year Award. This year’s Virtuosos Award will celebrate a stellar lineup of talent, including Kieran Culkin, Harris Dickinson, Karla Sofía Gascón, Selena Gomez, Ariana Grande, Clarence Maclin, Mikey Madison, and John Magaro.

Fans flock to the red carpet, often waiting for hours, hoping to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars arriving in style. For ticket holders, these tributes are an unforgettable blend of Hollywood’s dazzling allure and the unique, intimate charm that defines Santa Barbara.

A panel of 6 men and 1 woman seated on a stage, with one man holding a microphone.

Beyond the Films: Panels and Parties

SBIFF isn’t just about film screenings and tributes. The festival also hosts a series of engaging panel discussions featuring filmmakers, actors, writers, and producers. These panels offer a behind-the-scenes look at the art and business of filmmaking, providing valuable insights for aspiring creatives and industry professionals alike.

When the day’s events wind down, the festival’s after-parties come to life. These gatherings are perfect for mingling with fellow attendees, networking with industry insiders, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere. Whether you’re sipping cocktails under the stars or dancing the night away, the parties add a layer of fun and glamour to the SBIFF experience.

Plan Your SBIFF Adventure

Santa Barbara International Film Festival is more than just an event—it’s an experience that brings the magic of Hollywood to one of California’s most beautiful coastal cities. From its historic theaters to its star-studded tributes, the festival offers something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned film buff or a first-time attendee.

With 11 days of cinematic magic awaiting, now is the perfect time to plan your visit. Whether you’re strolling the red carpet, discovering a new favorite film, or rubbing shoulders with industry greats, SBIFF 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this world-renowned celebration of film—Santa Barbara is ready to roll out the red carpet for you.

Immerse yourself in the enchantment of SBIFF 2025—explore the dazzling lineup of events and secure your passes and tickets. Stay in the loop by signing up for the SBIFF mailing list and never miss a moment of the magic.

The Santa Barbara International Film Festival is just one of the many extraordinary events that make our world-renowned area truly magical. If you’re dreaming of calling the stunning, upscale communities of Santa Barbara home, I’d love to help make that dream a reality. Contact me today at (805) 886-9378 or email me at Cristal@montecito-estate.com.

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“We met Cristal first in the course of renting a winter home (for three years), then buying a house using her as our agent. She was amazingly good at listening to our wants and showing us homes that fit our needs. Her mastery of the paperwork was perfect. Most importantly, there was never a situation where we doubted her straightforwardness or integrity. If we do another real estate transaction in Montecito (which I doubt, we’re happy with what we purchased), without question we’d use Cristal again.”

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“A little something about “our” realtor, Cristal Clarke. My wife and I came to Santa Barbara about fifteen years ago looking for a seasonal home from which to enjoy the weather and amenities of the central coast. Being in the real estate business myself I was familiar with agents and brokers so entered the market with open eyes. We “flipped” a few houses in the early years, dealing with various agents and finally ended up in Montecito. That’s when good fortune put us together with Cristal. To say we were impressed is to put it mildly. Cristal really knows the market. She is familiar with the area, its history and trends. When we have questions about a particular property she either has the answers immediately or gets back to us by phone or email. There is no waiting or wondering with Cristal. She is an agent who is “on top of it.” Her recommendations as to price points, contractors, inspectors and title agents have proven to be exceptional, showing great insight and the highest professional standards. We consider ourselves exceedingly fortunate to say that Cristal Clarke is our realtor and would recommend her services to any serious buyer or seller.”

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