Comedian, songwriter, and activist Bruce Vilanch and Director Marc Saltarelli were among the celebrity attendees of the Festival’s Inaugural Fundraiser.
The year 2024 marks the 25th anniversary of the Ojai Film Festival (OFF). In 1998, artist and filmmaker Steve Grumette received an invitation to judge at the Canyonlands Film Festival in Moab, Utah. With a similar population and boasting both a vibrant arts community and a spectacular natural environment, Moab reminded him of Ojai. Upon returning from Utah, Steve realized that if Moab could support a thriving film festival, why not Ojai? From that idea came the inception of the Ojai Film Festival.
On Nov. 15, 2000, nearly two years of intensive effort by more than 100 volunteers culminated in the opening of the first Ojai Film Festival to an overwhelmingly enthusiastic response from filmmakers and filmgoers alike. The festival launched with two goals in mind: to provide audiences with opportunities to see groundbreaking work otherwise inaccessible and to give filmmakers access to an enthusiastic audience, including industry professionals.
In early 2002, the festival established itself as an independent nonprofit foundation, dedicated to expanding the traditions created during the first two years. Now in its 22nd year, the festival continues its commitment to enriching the human spirit by seeking out important films that uplift, help audiences feel good about being part of the human race, or inspire them to live meaningful lives. Over the past few years, the Ojai Film Festival has expanded with Focus Earth, a mini-festival featuring films and panels on environmental issues presented by local filmmakers and experts, as well as a screenwriting competition. The festival also developed a full-day education program for regional high school students, regularly attracting more than 200 students for seminars and film screenings.
The festival offers audiences a diverse lineup of films from around the world, with past entries representing over 43 countries. It also provides filmmakers with access to a highly appreciative audience of savvy film fans. Steve Grumette, program director of the Ojai Film Society, continues to receive invitations to serve as a juror at other festivals, reflecting the growing importance of Ojai’s festival. Legendary Hollywood producer Peter Guber once told an audience at the Toronto International Film Festival, “Ojai is the next Telluride.”
The Ojai Film Festival’s 2024 edition will run from Oct. 31 to Nov. 4, 2024, featuring a diverse selection of films, workshops, panels, and events that promise to captivate, educate, and entertain attendees. “This year’s Ojai Film Festival is set to be a vibrant exploration of diverse stories and global perspectives,” said festival president Katie Guernsey. “Our schedule includes an exciting range of films that challenge, inspire, and entertain. We can’t wait for audiences to experience the magic of cinema at OFF.”
Schedule Overview:
- Friday, Nov. 1: Screenings begin with The Gray, The Black and Water for Life, followed by the evening feature Los Frikis at 7 p.m., and ending with a Mingle and Mix at 9 p.m.
- Saturday, Nov. 2: Highlights include the documentary 999 – The Forgotten Girls, The Italians by Michelle Danner, and a panel on “Navigating Film Distribution.” The day ends with the Festival Reception at 9 p.m., where filmmakers and attendees can connect.
- Sunday, Nov. 3: The day kicks off with the Awards Brunch, celebrating this year’s winners. Highlights include the CineFemme Slate and NFMLA Diversity screening blocks, as well as a live reading of the Screenplay Competition winner’s script, one of the most anticipated events.
- Monday, Nov. 4: The final day features Death Pays Flora a Visit, The Cigarette Surfboard, Otter Space, and the revered Gold Coast track, showcasing local films such as The Last Rhino, Wingwalker, and 172 Pushups.
Festival Highlights:
- Special Screenings: The highly anticipated documentary Los Frikis and the narrative feature The Last Birthday.
- Industry Panels: Discussions on “The Business of Filmmaking” and “Navigating the Complex Landscape of Film and TV Distribution” offer valuable insights for filmmakers.
- Student & International Films: Highlights include A Swim Lesson, Tennis, Oranges, and Rising Above, along with curated films from around the world showcasing different cultures and perspectives.
- Filmmaker Q&As and opportunities for audience engagement will take place throughout the festival.
Get Your Tickets: Tickets are available now at OjaiFilmFestival.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the art of filmmaking in the beautiful town of Ojai.
