NEWPORT BEACH FILM FESTIVAL HAS KICKED OFF
April 15 –25, 2004
http://www.newportbeachfilmfest.com

The Newport Beach Film Festival will spotlight over 350 films from around the world including features, shorts, documentaries, and animation that will compete for a series of awards including Jury Awards and Audience Awards. In addition to film screenings, the Festival will host several premiere galas, yacht parties, and question and answer sessions with filmmakers. The Festival runs from April 15th through April 25th, 2004. The event is expected to attract more than 25,000 film devotees.

Blending the best of classic and contemporary filmmaking, the Festival is proud to showcase an exclusive selection of award-winning independent and studio films from around the world. International entries, including selections from Africa, Asia, Scandinavia, Eastern and Western Europe, and South and Central America are carefully chosen to represent a truly unique mix of culture and genre.

Over the Festival’s eleven-day run, participants will be treated to U.S. and world premieres, Academy Award-nominated short films, foreign Oscar submissions, Sundance Selections, Spotlight Series, Children’s Festival, gala opening night and closing night events, and an in-depth seminar and symposium series exploring the world of filmmaking through the eyes of recognized film industry players.

The picturesque City of Newport Beach will serve as the backdrop to the Festival’s film screenings and special events. Located just 55 minutes south of Hollywood, Newport Beach offers an optimal setting to experience filmmaking at its finest. The City boasts one of the largest movie consumer groups in the world and a rich filmmaking history. Thousands of visitors every year are drawn to the City’s spectacular coastline, fine dining, shopping, and exciting recreational activities.

Films will screen throughout the City of Newport Beach at venues including the Edwards Island Cinema, located at Fashion Island outdoor shopping center in the heart of Newport Beach, Orange County Museum of Art, and the historic Lido Cinema located near Lido Island. The Opening Night Gala will be shown around Laws of attractions at Edwards Big Newport, across the street from Fashion Island.