Newport Beach Film Festival celebrates a star-studded slate of honorees

The Newport Beach Film Festival, a jewel of the cinematic calendar, is coming up from October 17-24 and promises a week filled with glitz, glamour, and groundbreaking films. This year, the festival rolls out the red carpet for an array of distinguished honorees, adding even more sparkle to its 25th anniversary celebrations.

Spotlight on rising stars and screen legends

Margaret Qualley and Bobby Cannavale are among the latest actors to receive accolades at the festival. Known for their stellar performances in The Substance and Ezra, respectively, Qualley will be awarded the Spotlight Award, while Cannavale will receive the Artist of Distinction Award. These recognitions underscore their talent and contributions to the film industry.

Actors and filmmakers who have already been announced as honorees include film stalwart Nicolas Cage, dynamic actress Joan Chen, multifaceted Colman Domingo, distinguished Marianne Jean-Baptiste, and legendary singer-songwriter Diane Warren. The lineup also features emerging talents such as George MacKay and industry veteran Sheryl Lee Ralph.

Exclusive screenings and insightful discussions

One of the highly anticipated events of the festival is the screening of The Last Showgirl on October 20. This film, featuring Kiernan Shipka, who’s notable for her roles in Mad Men and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, will conclude with a Q&A session. Attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to hear insights directly from director Gia Coppola and writer Kate Gersten. Shipka will also be honored with the prestigious Artist of Distinction Award during the event.

Another highlight is the recognition of Inside Out 2 screenwriters Meg LeFauve and Dave Holstein. Their storytelling prowess will be celebrated with the Artist of Distinction Award – Screenwriting, following a special screening and conversation slated for October 19.

Celebrations beyond the silver screen

Masters behind the lens

The Newport Beach Film Festival is not just about the stars on screen but also about the brilliance behind the camera. This year, the festival introduces the Master of the Frame panel on October 19, featuring industry-renowned cinematographers like Alice Brooks, known for her work on Wicked, and Lawrence Sher of Joker: Folie à Deux fame. These sessions offer an insider’s view into the visual storytelling that shapes the cinematic experience.

Conversations with industry influencers

Celebrating not just established talent but also emerging voices, the festival’s awards brunch on October 20 will include a special conversation with Variety’s 10 Actors to Watch. These discussions provide a platform for budding stars to share their journeys and insights, offering festival attendees a glimpse into the future of filmmaking.

The festival will also honor Amy Poehler with the Legends and Groundbreakers Award. Known for her dynamic career in front of and behind the camera, Poehler continues to influence the industry with her versatility and innovative contributions.

A global cinematic celebration

In its 25th year, the Newport Beach Film Festival continues to be a beacon of international cinema. This milestone anniversary features a diverse selection of films from around the world, offering something for every cinephile. Buzzy titles such as Blitz, Nightbitch, and The Piano Lesson will be showcased, reflecting the festival’s commitment to presenting cutting-edge and thought-provoking cinema.

Join the cinematic celebration

The Newport Beach Film Festival remains a significant event in the cinema calendar, not just for its glamorous red-carpet moments but for its dedication to celebrating diverse stories and unique voices in film. It’s an event that bridges cultures, brings together industry professionals, and invites audiences to immerse themselves in the magic of storytelling.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of an unforgettable experience that honors both emerging talents and acclaimed legends. Share this news with your friends and follow our updates to stay in the loop about this and other exciting events. The cinematic celebration awaits!