Long Beach Film Festival
Long Beach takes center stage Aug. 29-30 as the inaugural Long Beach Film Festival transforms the historic Art Theatre into a celebration of independent filmmaking. The two-day event brings together filmmakers, movie lovers and industry professionals for feature and short films while showcasing Long Beach's growing creative community. Along with screenings, attendees can meet directors, hear behind-the-scenes stories and develop their own filmmaking skills. And action!
TICKETS
The Long Beach Film Festival runs Saturday, Aug. 29 through Sunday, Aug. 30, at the Art Theatre (2025 E 4th St) on Retro Row. Festivalgoers can choose from single-screening tickets–ranging between $10-$20–an All-Festival Pass ($75) that includes every film screening, or a VIP Pass ($150), which adds access to filmmaker mixers, special events as well as the Filmmaker Lounge. Advance purchase is highly recommended, as several screenings are expected to sell out.
OPENING NIGHT
The festival launches its inaugural year with an Opening Night Party aboard the Queen Mary. From 6 to 9 PM, guests will arrive on a red carpet, setting the tone for an evening of cinematic glamour and the Long Beach community. It’s an evening designed to welcome the entire city into the festival, spotlighting its cultural momentum and setting the stage for the exceptional days ahead. To attend LBFF’s Opening Night Party, purchase a VIP Pass here.
FEATURE FILMS
The festival will showcase four, full-length feature films, notably “Rescued,” written, directed and starring Long Beach filmmaker DJ Hale. Shot throughout the city—including recognizable locations such as Rosie's Dog Beach—the film highlights Long Beach as both a backdrop and character. Other films are “Ugly Cry,” directed and starring Emily Robinson of “Eighth Grade,” as well as “Again Again” and “Downbeat.”
SHORT FILM SHOWCASES
Short films make up a significant portion of the festival, with more than 25 shorts giving audiences a chance to discover fresh voices and innovative storytelling in a variety of genres. Shorts will be grouped by subject matter and tone, with collections offering an eclectic mix of styles, perspectives and creative approaches packed into engaging screening blocks. Saturday features collections called Out of This World! And Nightmares on 4th Street, while Sunday offers The Pursuit of Happiness and 21st Century Problems.
FILMMAKER WORKSHOP FOR KIDS
On August 30, the LBFF FilmLounge will offer a hands-on filmmaking experience designed specifically for young storytellers. If your child is 8-12 years old and loves movies, creativity or simply has a story to share, this workshop offers them the chance to learn how real filmmakers bring ideas to life on the big screen. The StoryLab will guide them through camera basics, visual storytelling and the magic of turning imagination into film. Sign up here.
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