Now in its second year, the Napa Valley Film Festival doesn’t try to be super glitzy or debut the most movies; the laid-back festival covering four walkable villages (Napa, Yountville, St. Helena and Calistoga) is comfortable featuring a thoughtful collection of films, wine tasting pavilions, a delectable array of food and a few parties. From the spectacular Festival Gala at Robert Mondavi Winery to the pre-screening pours, vino lovers are shown as much love as movie buffs.
For foodies in the audience, there will be movie-inspired dishes at restaurants, munchie-filled VIP tents as well as a panel on November 10—Forbes Travel Guide expert Christopher Kostow of The Restaurant at Meadowood is one of the esteemed guests—discussing chefs’ never-ending quest in the region to find fresh ingredients.
As far as the search for fine independent films and documentaries goes, NVFF shines there, too, with an inspiring lineup of 100+ productions, including those with big names (Bradley Cooper’s Silver Linings Playbook), small stars (middle school-centered Funeral Kings), classic titles (Night of the Living Dead) and an eagerly awaited world premiere (Somm, the story of four sommeliers). A series of interactive panels (“Make Your Pitch” will undoubtedly bring out aspiring Martin Scorseses) and a tribute to diverse actor Alan Cumming hosted by Access Hollywood’s Billy Bush help complete a buzz-worthy weekend of film, food and fine wine that Tinseltown couldn’t have done any better itself.
The festival runs from November 7-11. For a complete list of Napa Valley Film Festival events, visit the website here.
Photos Courtesy of Napa Valley Film Festival
