SBIFF hosted an hour and a half in-person conversation with Robert Downey Jr. moderated by Lionel Maltin discussing Downey’s career, complete with clips and montages from his body of work. The evening culminated with the award presentation by a special guest to applaud his great film achievements. Always insightful, and often humorous and thought provoking, tribute video is not to be missed.

The Modern Master Award is the highest honor presented by SBIFF. Established in 1995, it was created to honor an individual who has enriched our culture through accomplishments in the motion picture industry. The award was re-named the Maltin Modern Master Award in 2015 in honor of long-time SBIFF moderator and renowned film critic Leonard Maltin.

Recipients:

2024 – Robert Downey Jr.
2023 – Jamie Lee Curtis
2022 – Javier Bardem and Nicole Kidman
2021 – Bill Murray
2020 – Brad Pitt
2019 – Glenn Close
2018 – Gary Oldman
2017 – Denzel Washington
2016 – Johnny Depp
2015 – Michael Keaton
2014 – Bruce Dern
2013 – Ben Affleck
2012 – Christopher Plummer
2011 – Christopher Nolan
2010 – James Cameron
2009 – Clint Eastwood
2008 – Cate Blanchett
2007 – Will Smith
2006 – George Clooney
2004 – Peter Jackson