27th Santa Barbara International Film Festival
Large Crowds Attend Opening Night Party and Film
L. Paul Mann
State street, in front of the opulent Arlington theater closed down on January 26th for the sold out opening night red carpet world premiere of “Darling Companion”. A mob of excited movie buffs crowded the entrance to see the film's stars, Diane Keaton and Kevin Kline, among other celebrities, who walked the red carpet. By all accounts the opening screening, which also included the new Pixar short “La Luna”, was a huge success. But for many film goers, the highlight of the evening was the elaborate after party, which took place outside in the Paseo Nuevo mall alleyways. The party, which has become an opening night tradition in recent years, is complimentary to anyone with an opening night film ticket.
The festivities, which kicked off right after the screening, included a live band, local DJ legend Gavin Roy, and a veritable feast of appetizers and beverages provide by some of Santa Barbara's most popular restaurants. Santa Ynez winery Bridlewood, made sure that wine connoisseurs in the crowd always had a full glass of one of their sumptuous labels. Stella Artois provide beer lovers with as much of their delicious brew as patrons could drink. There was also a full bar for those who preferred a stiff drink. All manner of yummy appetizers provided an endless sumptuous delight for hungry film buffs. From a tiny slice of pizza from California Pizza kitchen, to a full course Mexican munch out from Wahoos ( famous for their fish tacos and now serving genuine Kahlua pork as well), there was plenty of food served through the duration of the party. Desserts like homemade cookies from Silvegreens and mini cupcakes kept patrons sugar munchies at bay. The lavish decorations around the theme of the night, the movie “A Clockwork Orange”, included a giant acrylic film sculpture. The reflective sculpture was a huge hit with party goers, photographing their distorted reflections. A digital remastered print of the classic film will be shown as part of the festival. Judging by the jovial expressions on the faces in the crowded party zone, everyone had a grand opening night
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