SBIFF's Riviera Theatre
Cinema Society

SBIFF’s Cinema Society presents an expansive schedule of sneak preview screenings for its membership base. The majority of events are followed by Q&As with the filmmakers and lead talent, focusing on the art and craft of filmmaking. Cinema Society was started in early 2000’s with a couple screenings each year and has since expanded to 50+ screenings and Q&As with the year’s best films and filmmakers. Members include SBIFF supporters and Santa Barbara based AMPAS members. The events take place at SBIFF’s state of the art Riviera Theatre.

CS members are invited to 50+ films per season which runs June through May. We also have 20+ private receptions following select Q&A’s that top level members and AMPAS Members are invited to attend for drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and to meet the talent.

MEMBERSHIPS
There is limited space so please review the memberships below and email help@sbiff.org to join or be added to our waiting list.
  • Membership seasons are from June 1st until May 31st
  • 50+ screenings and 20+ Premiere Receptions

WHAT IS A PREMIERE RECEPTION?
Following select Q&A’s premiere members are invited to a private reception to mingle with fellow members and chat with the talent in a relaxed environment. Light appetizers and drinks are served.

PREMIERE DOUBLE MEMBERSHIP: $2,700
  • Priority Access for two to all films, Q&As and receptions
  • Premiere Membership cards ARE transferable
  • $5 discount on General Admission tickets to regular film screenings at the Riviera Theatre (must show card at box office – valid for member only)
PREMIERE SINGLE MEMBERSHIP: $1,600
  • Priority Access for one to all films, Q&As and receptions
  • Premiere Membership cards ARE transferable
  • $5 discount on General Admission tickets to regular film screenings at the Riviera Theatre (must show card at box office – valid for member only)
DOUBLE MEMBERSHIP: $1,700
  • Non--transferable access for two to all films & Q&As
  • $5 discount on General Admission tickets to regular film screenings at the Riviera Theatre (must show card at box office – valid for member only)
SINGLE MEMBERSHIP: $950
  • Non--transferable access for one to all films & Q&As
  • $5 discount on General Admission tickets to regular film screenings at the Riviera Theatre (must show card at box office – valid for member only)
ADMISSION POLICIES
  • Premiere & AMPAS Members are seated starting 30 minutes before showtime, Non-Premiere members starting 20 minutes before showtime
  • Premiere Members who arrive after 20 minutes before showtime must get in the Non-Premiere line, no cutting in line. Admission times may vary at discretion of staff
  • Members are REQUIRED to show their card at the door (Please have your card in hand to expedite the entry line)
  • $15 member guest tickets will be available at the door if space permits
  • Premiere Reception Guest Tickets available for $25 each
  • Present your membership card at the Riviera Box Office for regular film showings and receive a $5 discount off the General Admission price (must show card at box office – valid for member only)
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
  • Memberships are non-refundable
  • Premiere Membership cards ARE transferable, Non-Premiere Membership cards are NON-transferable
  • There must be an individual name and photo associated with each membership card
  • Membership cards will be held on will call and will not be mailed
  • An advanced schedule for the season is not available
  • Saving seats is not permitted
  • The use of cell phones, cameras and recording devices are prohibited during the film and Q&A
  • If you are unable to stay for the entire length of the Q&A, out of respect for the talent, please leave during the credits before the Q&A begins and not during any portion of the Q&A
  • Photos and autographs with talent from the film is NOT allowed
  • $5 replacement fee for lost cards to cover reproduction costs