It feels like a very inspiring new year is upon us! I have to reflect on the transformational last few years for cinema and for film festivals as we’ve seen explosive growth for streaming platforms and unprecedented cable cutting. We’ve witnessed iconic film festivals pivot to virtual and theaters go dark.

We need to look at this year as a great opportunity to be together often and experience film the way it should be…on the big screen. While the last 3 years might leave us with a little trepidation as we roll into 2023, I think we need to look at this year as a great opportunity to be together often and experience film the way it should be…on the big screen. For me, watching a film in a theater has always been magical. I’ve come to realize more than ever that it is a privilege to be fully present with other film goers and have that shared experience.

Film Festivals are a great way to unite a community and provide a platform for filmmakers and film goers to come together, learn from each other and celebrate film. While we live in divided times, film is one of the few mediums that allow us to walk in someone else’s shoes. What better way to break down prejudices than through cinema where we can experience how different people live, work and love.

Only in the theater can you experience the catharsis that film brings, to collectively see that different perspective from your own and walk out of the dark a little bit transformed.

Consider this an invitation to join the San Diego Intl Film Festival this year as we bring the best in global independent film to the big screen October 18-23.  Let’s ‘Celebrate The Power of Film’ together this year!

–Tonya Mantooth, CEO/Artistic Director

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