The 2010 Gasparilla International Film Festival kicked off last night at the historic Tampa Theatre in downtown Tampa.  After months of planning for the GIFF's marquee event, the volunteers and members of the board all saw their tremendous efforts pay off.  A night of meeting industry professionals, seeing a Sundance winning flick, and mingling with people who are passionate about filmmaking highlighted the night.

As local and national celebrities arrived for the reception prior to the opening flick, business cards were flying all over the place.  The GIFF board finally had a chance to enjoy a drink or two and interact with all in attendance.  Also enjoying the festivities were State Representative Kevin Ambler, Digital Domain Chairman John Textor, and even Golden Globe nominated Armand Assante was making his rounds throughout the night.

One of the featured moments came when veteran actor Raymond J. Barry received this year's lifetime achievement award.  Having had roles in many well-known Hollywood feature, such as Born on the Fourth of July and Training Day, along with an accomplished career on stage, evoked a standing ovation from the capacity-filled Tampa Theatre.

Barry was very humble and shared many "anecdotes" about his early days as an actor.  Which had the crowd constantly laughing.  "It's funny that I have a lifetime achievement award because I'm not done with my life yet" he stated.  Barry can be seen in Charlie Valentine during this year's GIFF screenings.

The opening film was an excellent choice by GIFF President Chad Moore and his fellow board members.  A winner of the audiences choice award at Sundance, happythankyoumoreplease was a winner with everyone in attendance last night.  After the screening, Tampa native and executive producer for the flick, Glenn Williamson, was in attendance and he along with his co-producer Jesse Hara fielded questions from the crowd.

Opening night wrapped up with the crowd moving to Rawbar for an exclusive after-party. 

If one hasn't made their GIFF plans yet, check out the site and/or the related articles to the right, with a plethora of information detailing out the next three days.  Being my first time covering the festival, if the other remaining days are anything like opening night, the city of Tampa is in for a real treat.