It’s still several months until the 16th annual Sonoma International Film Festival, which runs April 10-14, 2013. Yet two important things are happening now: film submissions, and early bird ticket sales.
Films may be submitted in one of four categories: Features, Documentaries, World Cinema, and Shorts.
Early ticket purchases, meanwhile, go one sale go on sale Dec. 1, with the discounted price offered until Jan. 9. “Casting calls,” finally, begin Dec. 1 for event volunteers who want to enjoy unparalleled behind-the-scenes experiences along with helping out the non-profit festival.
Local, national and international films are encouraged, for live-action or animated feature-length fiction films of any theme or subject; documentary films over 30 minutes on a variety of non-fiction subjects from hard-hitting exposes and deeply personal stories to humorous observations of everyday events; feature films from around the world; and works under 30 minutes long (give or take) including world cinema, alternative, and student films. Final submissions must be received before Jan. 28, 2013.
To get you in the mood, watch this mini-movie from the Festival’s executive director Kevin McNeely.
Big names are involved. Last year, the gathering paid tribute to legendary filmmaker John Waters, with Waters himself in attendance. Previous Sonoma Festival guests have included luminaries like Susan Sarandon, Bruce Willis, Michael Keaton, Robin Williams, Lauren Hutton, and Danny Glover.
The five-day event takes over more than a half dozen venues across downtown Sonoma, headlining with film premieres, panels with the talent behind the movies, live music performances and – ah, Hollywood! – plenty of parties.
Details: sonomafilmfest.org.