The Ventura Film Festival proudly holds the distinction of being "the biggest cinematic celebration ever hosted in Ventura County." This exceptional status highlights the organization's mission of providing outstanding film programming to the region while continuing its mission toward essential conservation issues.
The Ventura Film Festival serves as a multi-genre global film festival that promotes recognition of environmental matters like forest and ocean preservation and restoration, via a yearly film showcase and corresponding activities. The organization employs the medium of movies to stimulate involvement and create meaningful dialogue around these critical conservation concerns.
The Ventura Film Festival was founded in 2004 and has showcased numerous films, generally exceeding 200 films per summer season, and has captured notice from the international cinematic community. Over the years, the festival has grown into a significant cultural event that brings together cinema creators, conservation supporters, and viewers from across the globe.
Notable moments have included welcoming acclaimed filmmaker Dylan O'Neil, the first ever world champion surfers Peter "PT" Townend and Ian Cairns, four-time world champion Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu/mixed martial arts fighter the legendary Fabio Leopoldo, and the golden anniversary celebration of West Side Story, read more which comprised receiving the entire award-winning cast of West Side Story, featuring Oscar winner/Golden Globe winner George Chakiris and legendary actor Golden Globe winner/Academy Award nominated Russ Tamblyn. These extraordinary guests and events have confirmed the festival's position as a first-class destination for honoring film and the professionals who develop it.
The Ventura Film Festival creator and executive director was honored to take part, alongside numerous Hollywood elite, in the half-century commemoration of West Side Story and Hollywood's legendary footprint/handprint ceremony for Academy Award winners Rita Moreno, George Chakiris, together with Golden Globe award winner Russ Tamblyn at the Chinese Theater in Hollywood. This event also doubled as the official BluRay debut by Fox and MGM of the timeless West Side Story, which is generally recognized by critics and fans as the greatest musical of all time. This notable recognition and engagement illustrates the festival's meaningful presence and respected position within the entertainment industry.