San Diego Film Festival Sept. 29 – Oct. 3rd

There is just something magical about film. Whether it’s a major blockbuster or indie movie short – film has the ability to captivate audiences and evoke emotions as if your own life had wondrously merged with the big screen. Even if a film had you bored to tears, you were still left with such an impression that you feel obliged to share with everyone within your social circle.

For nine years, the San Diego Film Foundation has been celebrating the power of film and bringing San Diego the Cannes and Sundance experience through the San Diego Film Festival. Today marks the first day of the San Diego Film Festival, and this year is expected to be the biggest yet. Running until October 3rd, the Gaslamp will be taken over and filled with five days of premieres and five days of TheMixster.com‘s favorite: parties!

Read on for my movie recommendations and which parties you’ll want to score day passes for!

Not only is this year’s festival extremely diverse with over 75 features, shorts, and documentaries – but SDFF has also added a special twist for eager movie goers. Taking the festival beyond the silver screen is the 360 degree film experience. Audiences can expect to see, and even participate in, special Q&A panels, dress-up contests, karaoke competitions, and more!

For the entire schedule and to purchase passes visit the website here.

Our Top Festival Picks
Welcome to the Rileys

Kristen Stewart is not an actress I am very fond of, but this story is absolutely intriguing. Kristen leaves her vampire-loving role in favor of portraying a run-away teen turned stripper. She is taken in by a married couple, the Rileys, whose marriage is on the rocks, due to the recent death of their daughter.

My Run

Now for something a little more uplifting, take in this inspiring documentary following Terry Hitchcock. After the loss of his wife to breast cancer and having to raise three children on his own, Terry vows to run 75 marathons for 75 consecutive days to honor his wife. Might I add that this man has high blood pressure and is 57 years old? Bringing awareness to breast cancer and the struggles of being a single parent, follow this man’s journey to the opening ceremonies of the Atlanta Olympic Games.

Nowhere Boy

This movie is one that I am most looking forward to seeing! If you’re a music lover or huge Beatles fan, don’t forget to check this flick out. Take a step back in time to John Lennon’s childhood and see how this future Beatle found himself in the world of art and music.

Conviction

I am not going to even begin to list the all-star cast of this film. Not everyone can get into independent film, so think of this flick as your stepping stone. Hilary Swank stars in this movie based on a true story about Betty Anne Waters, sister to Kenny – man convicted for murder. Betty Anne puts herself through 18 years of school to prove her brother’s innocence.

Also check out: Norman, Teenage Paparazzo, The Rock ‘n’ Roll Dreams of Duncan Christopher, Making the Boys, Achromatopsia, The People vs. George Lucas

Short Films
I am not going to lie to you, I want to see all of the short films, but my bias, based on my own personal experience, has led me to this place and I do believe you should check out San Diego State University’s “Shorts Program.” When I attended SDSU, many of my friends were in the Television, Film, and New Media program. These kids are some of the hardest working students I have known, completely driven by their passion for the magic of film. As a matter of fact, it’s actually a pretty difficult program to get into; administrators aren’t very keen on lost students who join for easy A’s. Honestly, check out all of the “shorts programs” offered – they are adorable and inspiring. But if you only pick one, I suggest SDSU’s Shorts Program. You never know, you could be seeing their work on a larger scale in the near future – support these young talented people within our community!

Parties!
We all know San Diego is a party city, so it’s no wonder that the San Diego Film Festival is known as one of the best party festivals! All of this year’s parties are quite notable – but not everyone can afford an All Access Pass. If you want to join in the celebrations this year, you’re going to either want to work your connections or buy yourself a Day Pass for the party you’re most dying to go to.

Wednesday: GQ Opening Night Party – Se Hotel
First of all, the name “GQ” should be enough to make you want to join the festivities! It’s “Gentlemen’s Quarterly” – aren’t you a little curious to see who would be at a party sponsored by this magazine? Brand names aside, kick-off parties are always fun and a great way to mingle with the people who brought you all the wonderful films you’re about to indulge in for the next few days. And if you love feeling party swanky, the Se is the perfect place to get your posh on.

Saturday: New Arrivals in Film – Andaz Hotel
If you’re really into the process of creating a film, from the creative to the logistics, this is the party for you. This is where you can really see who’s upcoming in the world of cinema. Congratulate some of the award winners (the awards party is held earlier on this day, also at Andaz) or create your own magic w/a few drinks and social power. Who knows, you could be the inspiration to some budding filmmaker’s next project.

Sunday: Closing Night Party – Vin de Syrah
Every event needs a last hoorah, and this is the perfect end to 5 days of movies and parties. You’re reading The Mixster, so chances are you already know what makes Syrah the most fantastical venue to lounge and grab a drink. Recount the stories you’ve seen on the big screen and your own personal stories with the friends you’ve made over the past few days. Sit back and relax in style.

By: Eileen Blancas