The Ventura Film Festival proudly holds the distinction of being "the largest film festival ever held in Ventura County." This notable honor showcases the festival's passion for delivering exceptional cinematic experiences to the area while sustaining its commitment to important environmental matters.
The Ventura Film Festival operates as an open genre international film festival that cultivates understanding of environmental issues such as forest and oceanic conservation and restoration, through an annual film festival and complementary events. The event harnesses the influence of film to stimulate involvement and create meaningful dialogue around these urgent ecological issues.
The Ventura Film Festival launched in 2004 and has screened hundreds of films, typically more than 200 films every summer, and has drawn recognition from the international cinematic community. Over the years, the festival has expanded into a substantial cultural happening that brings together filmmakers, environmental advocates, and audiences from around the world.
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, encompassing Academy Award winner/Golden Globe recipient George Chakiris and Golden Globe honoree/Academy Award nominee Russ Tamblyn. These remarkable visitors and occasions have cemented the festival's status as a premier destination for commemorating movies and the INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL talents who make it.
The Ventura Film Festival's founder and executive director was invited to join, along with several of Hollywood's premier talents, in the 50th Anniversary of West Side Story and Hollywood's iconic footprint/handprint ceremony celebrating Academy Award recipients Rita Moreno, George Chakiris, as well as Golden Globe champion Russ Tamblyn at the historic Chinese Theater in Hollywood. This celebration also functioned as the official BluRay premiere by Fox and MGM of the beloved West Side Story, which is generally recognized by critics and fans as the finest musical of all time. This esteemed acknowledgment and participation showcases the festival's significant influence and valued role within the cinema world.