Utilizing the dramatic and beautiful setting of the historic Arlington Theatre, the Festival honors tribute recipients with an all-star red-carpet experience as lines of media, crowds of fans and Festival supporters line the pathway. The evening’s celebration consists of a professionally produced film montage of the honoree’s body of work, a live on-stage interview hosted by an acclaimed film personality and ultimately the presentation of the award and the honoree’s acceptance speech. Press coverage for these events is extensive.
Annual awards may include the following:
Modern Master Award : The Modern Master Award is the highest honor presented by SBIFF. Established in 1995, it was created to honor an individual who has enriched our culture through accomplishments in the motion picture industry. Past recipients: Cate Blanchett, Will Smith, George Clooney and Peter Jackson.
American Riviera ™ Award : Santa Barbara has long been described as the American Riviera™. SBIFF proudly places this trademarked name on our newest award for outstanding achievement in American film. Past recipients: Tommy Lee Jones, Forest Whitaker and Philip Seymour Hoffman.
Montecito Award : Named after one of the most beautiful and stylish areas in Santa Barbara the Montecito Award is given to a recipient whose style has been a contribution to film. Past recipients: Javier Bardem, Bill Condon, and Naomi Watts.
Outstanding Performance of the Year Award : This tribute was created to honor the actor or actress whose role in a film has exceeded greatness. The Outstanding Performance of the Year Award is given to the best performance of the year. Past recipients: Angelina Jolie, Helen Mirren, Heath Ledger, and Kate Winslet.
David Attenborough Award for Excellence in Nature Filmmaking : The David Attenborough Award was created for and first given to Sir David Attenborough for his commitment to nature filmmaking This award is given to a filmmaker who shows passion for nature filmmaking. Past recipients include James Cameron, Al Gore and Davis Guggenheim.
Independent Award : This award honors an actor or filmmaker for excellence in independent cinema. Past recipient: Ryan Gosling
Virtuosos Award : An award given to multiple “up-and-coming” actors for achieving a breakthrough performance. Past recipients: Casey Affleck, Marion Cotillard, James McAvoy, Ellen Page and Amy Ryan.