For the last 10 years St. Augustine has been having a film festival with each year growing more. Occurring in January it draws folks from Florida and beyond. Tickets are reasonable, and with the potential of seeing 3 to 4 films daily, this is a steal. For those interested in more fare there are also parties and sometimes film makers appear to answer questions regarding their films.

This year the Fest awarded Joe Pantoliano a Lifetime Achievement Award. Joe is a character actor who has graced the screen with over 100 credits from films such as Risky Business, (in his youth), to The Matrix, to From the Vine, the opening night film of the festival.

Post film Joe took audience questions with the snarky wit he is known for. One of his 4 daughters, Daniella Sheppard Pantoiliano, showed two of her shorts at the festival with dad in attendance. Proud papa, 🙂 .

What were my favorite films this year?

• Saint Frances
• Balloon
• Love in Suspenders

Perhaps you can catch them on Netflix, but better yet put this Festival on the calendar for next year. And if cost is a factor, we are always looking for festival volunteers.

See you at the movies.