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Celebrating cinematic excellence at the Newport Beach Film Festival
The Newport Beach Film Festival is set to honor a stellar lineup of talent this year, with a series of awards recognizing the contributions of some of the most distinguished figures in the film industry. The event, taking place from October 17-24 at the Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach, promises to be a celebration of both established and emerging talent.
Honoring legends and trailblazers
Nicolas Cage: A career of iconic performances
Nicolas Cage, currently captivating audiences in the horror sensation Longlegs, will be honored with the Icon Award. Cage’s extensive career, marked by a diverse range of roles and an Oscar win, has solidified his status as a cinematic legend.
Joan Chen: A lifetime of achievement
Joan Chen, recently seen in Didi, will receive the Career Achievement Award. Chen’s contributions to film and television have been both profound and enduring, making her a deserving recipient of this honor.
Colman Domingo and June Squibb: Celebrating unique voices
Colman Domingo, known for his powerful performance in Sing Sing, will be presented with the Maverick Award. This award highlights his fearless approach to storytelling and his ability to bring complex characters to life.
June Squibb, whose recent work in Thelma has garnered critical acclaim, will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award. Squibb’s career, spanning decades, is a testament to her enduring talent and dedication to her craft.
Diane Warren: A musical journey
Diane Warren, an Emmy and Grammy winner, will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement in Music Award for her work on Six Triple Eight. Warren’s contributions to music in film have left an indelible mark on the industry.
Marianne Jean-Baptiste and Sheryl Lee Ralph: Distinctive artistry
Marianne Jean-Baptiste, recognized for her role in Hard Truths, and Sheryl Lee Ralph, celebrated for her performance in Abbott Elementary, will both receive the Artist of Distinction Award. Their unique talents and impactful performances have set them apart in the world of entertainment.
George MacKay: Spotlight on rising stars
George MacKay, known for his role in The End, will be presented with the Spotlight Award. This award recognizes his promising career and the significant impact he has made in a relatively short time.
Special recognitions and conversations
Finneas O’Connell: Musical excellence
On October 21, two-time Oscar winner Finneas O’Connell will receive the Outstanding Achievement in Music Award. This honor will be part of a special career conversation, offering insights into his creative process and contributions to film music.
Terry Crews: Champion of the arts
Also on October 21, Terry Crews, the charismatic host of America’s Got Talent, will be honored with the Arts Champion Award during the Festival’s Sunset Series. Crews’ advocacy for the arts and his dynamic presence in the entertainment industry make him a fitting recipient.
Celebrating comedy and costume design
Previously announced honorees include:
- Christoph Waltz (Icon Award on October 17)
- David Alan Grier and Wendi McLendon-Covey (Outstanding Achievement in Comedy Award on October 18)
- Colleen Atwood (Career Achievement in Costume Design on October 20)
- Jane Lynch (Outstanding Achievement in Comedy Award on October 22)
- Peter Sarsgaard (Performance of the Year Award on October 23)
Spotlight on emerging talent
Variety’s 10 Actors to Watch will be celebrated at a special brunch on October 20. This year’s honorees include:
- Monica Barbaro (A Complete Unknown)
- Zoë Chao (Nightbitch)
- Ryan Destiny (The Fire Inside)
- Karla Sofía Gascón (Emilia Pérez)
- Fred Hechinger (Gladiator II)
- Ella Hunt (Saturday Night)
- David Jonsson (Alien: Romulus)
- Josh Rivera (American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez)
- Drew Starkey (Queer)
- Toby Wallace (Eden)
A milestone celebration
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Newport Beach Film Festival, one of the largest luxury lifestyle film festivals in the U.S. The festival will feature premieres of highly anticipated films such as Old Guy, A Real Pain, Blitz, Hard Truths, Nightbitch, and The Piano Lesson.
For more information and tickets, visit Newport Beach Film Festival.
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