Napa, CA (February 4, 2019) – The Board of Directors of Cinema Napa Valley (CNV) has announced the retirement of founders Brenda and Marc Lhormer from Cinema Napa Valley and their respective roles as Co-Director and Executive & Artistic Director of the Napa Valley Film Festival.
In June 2009, the Lhormer made a decision to commit their time, talents and personal funds to creating a world-class film festival for the Napa Valley community. Their vision included supporting the art of independent cinematic story-telling, bringing the inspirational and transformative power of film into the lives of local students, and showcasing Napa Valley’s unparalleled food, wine and hospitality. From a six-film mini-fest in 2010 (which included the eventual Academy Award-Winner for Best Picture: The King’s Speech), to full-scale programs with 100+ films and 300+ working filmmakers attending and interacting with growing audiences over eight years, the Napa Valley Film Festival immediately made a big impact and has become one of the country’s most sought-after festivals. Each year’s festival celebrates everyday working filmmakers along with some of Hollywood’s biggest talents and rising stars, with festival experiences infused with the artistry of the Napa Valley.
“It has been an honor and privilege to serve the community as Founders and Directors of the Napa Valley Film Festival,” stated Brenda and Marc Lhormer. “Of course, none of this happens in a vacuum. We extend our thanks and will cherish so many wonderful memories working alongside our staff, volunteers, partners and sponsors, patrons, vintners, chefs and hoteliers. We’re excited to cheer everyone on from the sidelines and look forward to seeing how the festival develops in its next chapter.”
“The members of the CNV Board of Directors would like to express their deepest appreciation and respect to Brenda and Marc Lhormer for their hard work, dedication, and leadership over the past nine plus years laying a foundation for us to follow for years to come. We wish them well in their future endeavors and welcome the opportunity to celebrate their legacy as we build towards an amazing festival in 2019,” stated Patrick Davila, Chairman of the Cinema Napa Valley Board.
Cinema Napa Valley will present the 9th annual Napa Valley Film Festival as previously announced November 13 – 17, 2019.
About Cinema Napa Valley
Cinema Napa Valley is a 501c3 non-profit organization founded in 2009 and headquartered in Napa, California. Cinema Napa Valley’s mission is to celebrate the cinematic arts and enrich the community by presenting an annual world-class film festival and year-round education and outreach programs.