The Cambria Film Festival is entering its 8th year! 

Our mission is to showcase wonderful films in our charming seaside town. For our 2024 festival, nearly 400 independent films from around the world were entered into the competition.  Approximately 60 were chosen for the competition...

Schedule

Wednesday, February 5,2025

Opening Night Sponsor Appreciation Night

5:30 - 7 PM @ Hospitality Tent

Opening Night Reception - Sponsor Appreciation Night! Sponsored by Brian & Sheryl Ebbs With thanks to Cutruzzola Vineyards and Hearst Ranch Winery Open to Sponsors and "Festival" Passholders only

"A Tribute to Sy Rosen" + Q&A

7 - 9 PM @ Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre

Sy Rosen is an American producer and screenwriter. He served as one of the creators of the American sitcom television series Gimme a Break!, which he created with Mort Lachman. Rosen started his career in 1976, first writing a few episodes for the television series The Bob Newhart Show. He also served in the army and graduated from college, in 1969. In the 1980s-2000s, Rosen produced and wrote many shows, including, Taxi, The Wonder Years, Maude, M*A*S*H, The Jeffersons, Rhoda, Sister,...

Thursday, February 6,2025

Hospitality Tent

9 AM - 4:30 PM @ Hospitality Tent

Located right off the hallways of the Cambria Center for the Arts, our heated and fully lighted enclosed tent is a convenient place to connect with other filmgoers between screenings, get information about the area, or have a complimentary coffee, soda, or snack. The Hospitality Tent is open to any Pass or Individual ticket holder.

On My Way

10 AM - 12 PM @ Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre

Sponsored by John & Mary Nixon | Inspired by a true story and my sleepless nights. Doudou Ngumbu, abandoned at the age of three, is taken in by his grandmother. He goes on the road to follow in the footsteps of his deceased dad and find himself. The encounters he will have will change never shorten his life and disrupt that of others.

Shorts Program - Family Matters

10 AM - 12 PM @ Gallery Theatre

Whether your family is big or small, we all know what it’s like to be part of one. These short films offer insight into the many perspectives of family life, and what it means to have one. Sponsored by Edward Jones Investments | A marriage, a daughter, a new cell phone and a weekend. Who is in charge? | A loving husband's quest to find a replacement breast for his cancer-stricken wife ends up in the botany books. | Mario wants to lead a normal life but can't help but make it extra...

Shorts Program - Reality Check

10 AM - 12 PM @ The Otter Theater

Ever felt like your head is in the clouds and needs to be brought back down to Earth? Take a journey through a variety of stories that center around “reality checks” - that sudden snap back to reality that makes us understand the world around us. Sponsored by Audrey Killick, Coldwell Banker | Academy Award-nominee Abigail Breslin presents: As Easy As Closing Your Eyes. 

Film Talk - Defining Moments: How Writers, Actors and Directors Develop Characters

12 - 1 PM @ Hospitality Tent

The ever-popular Film Talks return! Join professional screenwriters/filmmakers Christopher and Kathy Riley for in-depth workshops over a boxed lunch in the Hospitality Tent! Lunch from The Spot is available for purchase. Pre-order at the box office by 10 am each morning for pick-up at the Film Talk! Defining Moments: How Writers, Actors and Directors Develop Characters The best storytelling explores character formation and transformation.

Shorts Program - Emerging Filmmaker Showcase

1 - 3 PM @ Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre

The Cambria Film Festival is proud to host the first-ever Student Filmmaker Competition! Enjoy these incredible short films that inspire, entertain, and challenge our perspectives - all created by talented student filmmakers from incredible student filmmaking programs worldwide. Sponsored by SuperImage, LTD. | After knowing an oil company offering handsome money for his family farm, Henry comes home to convince his immigrant, aging parents to sell the home for good.

Shorts Program - Growing Pains

1 - 3 PM @ Gallery Theatre

Change can be difficult, but it’s the lessons we learn along the way that make change - good or bad - worth it in the end. Enjoy these short films that showcase the ins and outs, ups and downs, and good and bad parts of growth - and what it means to be human in the end. Sponsored by Judy & Ed Stokely | Clara and Bertie have been friends for nearly 60 years, but when Clara wants to add a new man into the mix, Bertie's devotion to her friend is tested.

Doc Block: Reflections of Growth

1 - 3 PM @ The Otter Theater

The art of short-form Documentary filmmaking is showcased here with films that intimately connect you with stories of courage and growth. Embark on a global journey to discover real-world heroes, adventurers, athletes, dreamers, and champions of strength that grow and adapt from the challenges that are inherent to life.

Shorts Program - In Retrospect

4 - 6 PM @ Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre

Nostalgia is a powerful tool - one that can transform our perspectives on life, love, relationships, work, or even art. Whether you’re keeping a memory alive, maintaining a life-long connection, defending one’s honor, or telling tall tales, nostalgia is the key to opening those doors. Sponsored by San Simeon Lodge | A man reflects on his relationship with his late father and how their connection through a multi-generational hobby provides togetherness between the two.

Everybody Wants to be Loved

4 - 6 PM @ Gallery Theatre

Sponsored by Pinnacle Auto Brokers | Ina is a therapist, the mother of a rebellious teenage girl, and a partner to a man who has always put his own career first. She puts everyone’s needs ahead of her own until one hot summer day, when her self-centered mother celebrates her 70th birthday, something happens that will change everything.

Movies at Moonstone Cellars - Cinema Medley

4 - 6 PM @ Moonstone Cellars Club Member Lounge

Movies at Moonstone Cellars are back! Each night will host a showcase of films that will challenge, intrigue, thrill, and engage you. Each film is shown in an intimate setting at the Moonstone Cellars Club Member Room and offers an opportunity to purchase a glass or bottle of delicious Moonstone wine as you enjoy the films. With thanks to Moonstone Cellars!

Shorts Program - More Than Meets the Eye

4 - 6 PM @ The Otter Theater

Sometimes, life isn’t all that it seems. These short films cleverly demonstrate that there is more to our lives than meet the eye - in every way imaginable. Sponsored by The Bluebird Inn | Mar­a turns 19 and says goodbye to her mother to take the train. It is a Thursday in March 2004. | Jenny's father has been diagnosed with Cancer. To cope, this deeply creative child makes scenes inside shoeboxes into which she escapes.

Emerging Filmmaker Night Reception

5:30 - 7 PM @ Hospitality Tent

Celebrate emerging filmmakers with the WORLD PREMIERE event of a student feature film. Immerse yourself into the world of the 1920s by dressing the part and indulge in food, wine, and fun as we honor our student filmmakers and their accomplishments at this specially themed event! Reception Sponsored by San Simeon Beach Bar & Grill Screening Sponsored by Central Coast Film Society With thanks to Cayucos Cellars and Harmony Cellars

Emerging Filmmaker Night - Jack & Lou: A Gangster Love Story & The Butterflies of Love

7 - 9 PM @ Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre

Celebrate emerging filmmakers with the WORLD PREMIERE event of a student feature film. Immerse yourself into the world of the 1920s by dressing the part and indulge in food, wine, and fun as we honor our student filmmakers and their accomplishments at this specially themed event! Join us in the Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre* for the World Premiere screening of Jack & Lou: A Gangster Love Story .

Movies at Moonstone Cellars - Long Form Shorts

7 - 9 PM @ Moonstone Cellars Club Member Lounge

Movies at Moonstone Cellars are back! Each night will host a showcase of films that will challenge, intrigue, thrill, and engage you. Each film is shown in an intimate setting at the Moonstone Cellars Club Member Room and offers an opportunity to purchase a glass or bottle of delicious Moonstone wine as you enjoy the films.

Friday, February 7,2025

Hospitality Tent

9 AM - 4:30 PM @ Hospitality Tent

Located right off the hallways of the Cambria Center for the Arts, our heated and fully lighted enclosed tent is a convenient place to connect with other filmgoers between screenings, get information about the area, or have a complimentary coffee, soda, or snack. The Hospitality Tent is open to any Pass or Individual ticket holder.

Reflections In a Room

10 AM - 12 PM @ Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre

Sponsored by Ken Mora & Heidi Tuffas | Berta, a mature woman from the upper class, has been hiring the services of Alberto, a professional escort, for some time. One day, Alberto can't make it, so he sends another escort, Hugo, a much younger and inexperienced guy from his neighborhood. Berta distrusts Hugo and insists him to leave, but Hugo wants to finish the job because he needs the money. 

Shorts Program - Reality Check

10 AM - 12 PM @ Gallery Theatre

Ever felt like your head is in the clouds and needs to be brought back down to Earth? Take a journey through a variety of stories that center around “reality checks” - that sudden snap back to reality that makes us understand the world around us. Sponsored by Audrey Killick, Coldwell Banker | Academy Award-nominee Abigail Breslin presents: As Easy As Closing Your Eyes. 

Maji

10 AM - 12 PM @ The Otter Theater

Sponsored by Tom Alexander | Across continents, one man's quest against the water crisis: five challenges, five countries, one cause.

Film Talk - The Heart of the Character-Driven Story

12 - 1 PM @ Hospitality Tent

The ever-popular Film Talks return! Join professional screenwriters/filmmakers Christopher and Kathy Riley for in-depth workshops over a boxed lunch in the Hospitality Tent! Lunch from The Spot is available for purchase. Pre-order at the box office by 10 am each morning for pick-up at the Film Talk! The Heart of the Character-Driven Story Our favorite screen characters struggle against insurmountable obstacles toward high-stakes goals.

Shorts Program - Voices Through Time

1 - 3 PM @ Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre

Short films focused on stories of strength, courage, dignity, freedom, humanity, and independence from foreign voices unheard - voices that shape us, voices that guide us, and voices that strengthen us. Sponsored by: Miguel and Odette Hernandez | El Ojo Comienza En La Mano is a tribute to campesino histories in rural CA through the artwork of an artist largely absent from critical conversations on Chicanx art, Ruben A.

Jack & Lou: A Gangster Love Story & The Butterflies of Love

1 - 3 PM @ Gallery Theatre

Festival alumni Aiden Glikmann's short film, "The Butterflies of Love" will precede the feature. Sponsored by Luigi’s Pizza | WORLD PREMIERE! In the 1970s, old gangster moll Lou Rolfe is confronted with her involvement in the St. Valentine's Day Massacre orchestrated in 1929 by her former husband, Al Capone's main hit-man, Jack McGurn. | Two musical stars from the golden age of Hollywood get a second chance at rekindling their love in the modern world.

Shorts Program - Complexities of Love

1 - 3 PM @ The Otter Theater

The Cambria Film Festival was founded as a showcase for films centered around romance, and this block of short films pays tribute to exactly that. Enjoy a selection of romantic films that truly showcase the “Complexities of Love” Sponsored by Dennis Frahmann & Robert Tieman | A girl who works in a museum tries to convince another co-worker that two visitors are flirting. And how does she know?

No Way Home

4 - 6 PM @ Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre

Sponsored by Dixie Walker | Set in an industrial wasteland, a young boy discovers an injured man who he thinks is his father.

Shorts Program - In Retrospect

4 - 6 PM @ Gallery Theatre

Nostalgia is a powerful tool - one that can transform our perspectives on life, love, relationships, work, or even art. Whether you’re keeping a memory alive, maintaining a life-long connection, defending one’s honor, or telling tall tales, nostalgia is the key to opening those doors. Sponsored by San Simeon Lodge | A man reflects on his relationship with his late father and how their connection through a multi-generational hobby provides togetherness between the two. | Maruja, 80...

Movies at Moonstone Cellars - Long Form Shorts

4 - 6 PM @ Moonstone Cellars Club Member Lounge

Movies at Moonstone Cellars are back! Each night will host a showcase of films that will challenge, intrigue, thrill, and engage you. Each film is shown in an intimate setting at the Moonstone Cellars Club Member Room and offers an opportunity to purchase a glass or bottle of delicious Moonstone wine as you enjoy the films. With thanks to Moonstone Cellars This year, we invite you to engage with the art of “long-form” short filmmaking - short stories...

Sy Rosen Tribute + Q&A

4 - 6 PM @ The Otter Theater

Sy Rosen Tribute | Sy Rosen Tribute | Sy Rosen Tribute

Filmmaker Welcome Reception

5:30 - 7 PM @ Hospitality Tent

Join us in a special welcome event to celebrate all of our filmmakers, local and visiting alike, including the creators and stars of the feature film Breakup Season ! Enjoy a “taco bar” reception with wine and food while you mix and mingle with our amazing filmmakers from all around the world. Sponsored by Montero Corporate Services With thanks to Absolution Cellars, Bassetti Vineyards, and Black Hand Cellars

Special Screening with Q&A - Breakup Season

7 - 9 PM @ Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre

When a young man brings his girlfriend to his rural Oregon hometown to meet his family for Christmas, things do not go as planned. Enjoy this delightful romantic comedy that charts the “complexities of love”, which the Cambria Film Festival was founded on. Starring Chandler Riggs, Samantha Isler, James Urbaniak and Jacob Wysocki. Moderated Q&A to follow. *Screening can also be viewed in the Gallery Theatre for a cabaret-style experience.

Movies at Moonstone Cellars - Cinema Medley

7 - 9 PM @ Moonstone Cellars Club Member Lounge

Movies at Moonstone Cellars are back! Each night will host a showcase of films that will challenge, intrigue, thrill, and engage you. Each film is shown in an intimate setting at the Moonstone Cellars Club Member Room and offers an opportunity to purchase a glass or bottle of delicious Moonstone wine as you enjoy the films.

Late Nite Cinema

9:30 - 11:30 PM @ Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre

Another festival first - this year, we are proud to present the first-ever version of “Late Nite Cinema” - a curation of short films that are designed to thrill, chill, and showcase everything that goes “bump” in the night. From historic hauntings to uncanny incidents, these films are sure to send a chill down your spine. Join the fun - if you dare! Disclaimer: This block contains films with tense and/or frightening themes and imagery. Viewer discretion is advised. Sponsored by Roo...

Saturday, February 8,2025

Hospitality Tent

9 AM - 3 PM @ Hospitality Tent

Located right off the hallways of the Cambria Center for the Arts, our heated and fully lighted enclosed tent is a convenient place to connect with other filmgoers between screenings, get information about the area, or have a complimentary coffee, soda, or snack. The Hospitality Tent is open to any Pass or Individual ticket holder.

Shorts Program - More Than Meets the Eye

10 AM - 12 PM @ Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre

Sometimes, life isn’t all that it seems. These short films cleverly demonstrate that there is more to our lives than meet the eye - in every way imaginable. Sponsored by The Bluebird Inn | Mar­a turns 19 and says goodbye to her mother to take the train. It is a Thursday in March 2004. | Jenny's father has been diagnosed with Cancer. To cope, this deeply creative child makes scenes inside shoeboxes into which she escapes.

No Way Home

10 AM - 12 PM @ Gallery Theatre

Sponsored by Ted & Suzy Siegler | Set in an industrial wasteland, a young boy discovers an injured man who he thinks is his father.

Reflections in a Room

10 AM - 12 PM @ The Otter Theater

Sponsored by Tom Alexander | Berta, a mature woman from the upper class, has been hiring the services of Alberto, a professional escort, for some time. One day, Alberto can't make it, so he sends another escort, Hugo, a much younger and inexperienced guy from his neighborhood. Berta distrusts Hugo and insists him to leave, but Hugo wants to finish the job because he needs the money.

Film Talk - Putting the Movie on the Page: Tips from the Author of The Hollywood Standard

12 - 1 PM @ Hospitality Tent

The ever-popular Film Talks return! Join professional screenwriters/filmmakers Christopher and Kathy Riley for in-depth workshops over a boxed lunch in the Hospitality Tent! Lunch from The Spot is available for purchase. Pre-order at the box office by 10 am each morning for pick-up at the Film Talk! Putting the movie on the page: Tips from the author of The Hollywood Standard Screenwriters imagine movies, extravaganzas of sights and sounds, that they have to pin to the script...

Shorts Program - Growing Pains

1 - 3 PM @ Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre

Change can be difficult, but it’s the lessons we learn along the way that make change - good or bad - worth it in the end. Enjoy these short films that showcase the ins and outs, ups and downs, and good and bad parts of growth - and what it means to be human in the end. Sponsored by Judy & Ed Stokely | Clara and Bertie have been friends for nearly 60 years, but when Clara wants to add a new man into the mix, Bertie's devotion to her friend is tested.

Breakup Season

1 - 3 PM @ Gallery Theatre

Sponsored by Walt Andrus & Loree Parall | When a young man brings his girlfriend to his rural Oregon hometown to meet his family for Christmas, things do not go as planned.

Maji

1 - 3 PM @ The Otter Theater

Sponsored by Tom Alexander | Across continents, one man's quest against the water crisis: five challenges, five countries, one cause.

Shorts Program - Voices Through Time

4 - 6 PM @ Gallery Theatre

Short films focused on stories of strength, courage, dignity, freedom, humanity, and independence from foreign voices unheard - voices that shape us, voices that guide us, and voices that strengthen us. Sponsored by: Miguel and Odette Hernandez | El Ojo Comienza En La Mano is a tribute to campesino histories in rural CA through the artwork of an artist largely absent from critical conversations on Chicanx art, Ruben A. Sanchez, as well as an unsentimental reckoning with the fate of man...

Awards Gala

6:30 - 9 PM @ Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre

6:30 pm Reception 8:00 pm Awards Ceremony 8:45 pm Coffee and dessert Join us as we celebrate the films and filmmakers of the 2025 Cambria Film Festival at our 8th annual Awards Gala! Wear your best and enjoy a wine reception before the presentation of the festival awards - who will take home the prize this year? Guests can watch the ceremony from the Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre, or on large screens throughout the venue including the Hospitality Tent and the Gallery Theatre.

Sunday, February 9,2025

Hospitality Tent

9 AM - 1 PM @ Hospitality Tent

Located right off the hallways of the Cambria Center for the Arts, our heated and fully lighted enclosed tent is a convenient place to connect with other filmgoers between screenings, get information about the area, or have a complimentary coffee, soda, or snack. The Hospitality Tent is open to any Pass or Individual ticket holder.

Everybody Wants to be Loved

10 AM - 12 PM @ Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre

Sponsored by Cavalier Oceanfront Resort | Ina is a therapist, the mother of a rebellious teenage girl, and a partner to a man who has always put his own career first. She puts everyone’s needs ahead of her own until one hot summer day, when her self-centered mother celebrates her 70th birthday, something happens that will change everything.

Shorts Program - Complexities of Love

10 AM - 12 PM @ Gallery Theatre

The Cambria Film Festival was founded as a showcase for films centered around romance, and this block of short films pays tribute to exactly that. Enjoy a selection of romantic films that truly showcase the “Complexities of Love” Sponsored by Dennis Frahmann & Robert Tieman | A girl who works in a museum tries to convince another co-worker that two visitors are flirting. And how does she know? Scientific studies say that there are six signs that show one person's attraction to another....

Doc Block: Reflections of Growth

10 AM - 12 PM @ The Otter Theater

The art of short-form Documentary filmmaking is showcased here with films that intimately connect you with stories of courage and growth. Embark on a global journey to discover real-world heroes, adventurers, athletes, dreamers, and champions of strength that grow and adapt from the challenges that are inherent to life. Sponsored by The Squibb Houses | Four young Malawian women share their journeys; from wanting to play football, being a lead guitarist, living with a disability, and supporting victims of sexual abuse. Each living their lives in the hope of inspiring other women to feel empowered.

For Filmmakers Only: Special Brunch Event

11 AM - 1 PM @ San Simeon Beach Bar & Grill

All holders of Filmmaker Passes are reminded not to miss the special Filmmaker Brunch held at the San Simeon Beach Bar & Grill. This is your opportunity to get to know one another while enjoying a great ocean view. By invitation only. Sponsored by Pacific Coast Wine Trail With thanks to San Simeon Beach Bar & Grill

Shorts Program - Family Matters

1 - 3 PM @ Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre

Whether your family is big or small, we all know what it’s like to be part of one. These short films offer insight into the many perspectives of family life, and what it means to have one. Sponsored by Edward Jones Investments | A marriage, a daughter, a new cell phone and a weekend. Who is in charge? | A loving husband's quest to find a replacement breast for his cancer-stricken wife ends up in the botany books. | Mario wants to lead a normal life but can't help but make it extraordinary.

On My Way

1 - 3 PM @ Gallery Theatre

Sponsored by Chris Storey & Tina Masiak | Inspired by a true story and my sleepless nights. Doudou Ngumbu, abandoned at the age of three, is taken in by his grandmother. He goes on the road to follow in the footsteps of his deceased dad and find himself. The encounters he will have will change never shorten his life and disrupt that of others.

Shorts Program - Emerging Filmmaker Showcase

1 - 3 PM @ The Otter Theater

The Cambria Film Festival is proud to host the first-ever Student Filmmaker Competition! Enjoy these incredible short films that inspire, entertain, and challenge our perspectives - all created by talented student filmmakers from incredible student filmmaking programs worldwide. Sponsored by SuperImage, LTD. | After knowing an oil company offering handsome money for his family farm, Henry comes home to convince his immigrant, aging parents to sell the home for good. Although the price is substantial, his father rejects the offer. But the next morning, Henry finds the deal has been signed. His parents only want to leave something for his son a better future.

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Date: February 5-9, 2025

Location: Various Venues in Cambria, CA

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