4 Reasons to Attend the 2025 Newport Beach Film Festival
Each fall, film lovers from near and far flock to Newport Beach for a weeklong celebration of cinema, culture, and coastal charm. The Newport Beach Film Festival, drawing over 60,000 attendees annually, has become one of the country’s most exciting luxury lifestyle film events. From October 16–23, 2025, hundreds of films from around the globe will take center stage, spanning documentaries, shorts, and full-length dramas that inspire, entertain, and spark conversation. Set against the stunning backdrop of Newport Beach, this iconic festival offers an unforgettable experience where world-class storytelling meets sun-soaked sophistication. Here’s a closer look at what makes this year’s festival a must-see event.
Independent and International Films
Celebrating its 26th year, the Newport Beach Film Festival will showcase hundreds of films during this year’s event, offering attendees the chance to experience everything from feature-length films to shorts. The eight-day festival kicks off with a special screening of “Blue Moon,” starring Ethan Hawke, Margaret Qualley, and Bobby Cannavale. Set on the evening of March 31, 1943, the film follows legendary lyricist Lorenz Hart as he wrestles with his self-doubt at Sardi’s bar, while his former collaborator Richard Rodgers celebrates the opening night of his groundbreaking musical, Oklahoma!. On closing night, guests can enjoy a screening of “Frankenstein” and a closing night party at Lido Theater.
Opening Night Gala at Fashion Island
Following the screening of “Blue Moon,” guests can attend a glamorous opening night party at Fashion Island. This special event will feature hor d’oeuvres prepared by award-winning Orange County restaurants, a hosted bar sponsored by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and live entertainment. Cocktail attire is strongly encouraged! Please also note that this is an outdoor event, so a coat or jacket is recommended. To purchase tickets, click here.
Honors and Variety’s “10 Actors to Watch”
On Sunday, Oct. 19, the festival will host its annual Honors and Variety’s “10 Actors to Watch” programs at the beautiful Balboa Bay Resort. The annual celebration will spotlight both industry legends and rising stars, like Milly Alcock, known for her role in “Sirens,” Miles Caton, one of the leads in “Sinners,” Chase Infiniti, who made her TV debut in “Presumed Innocent,” and many more. Please note that attendance at the Newport Beach Film Festival Honors event is by invite-only!
StyleWeekOC
Aside from various screenings, this year’s festival will offer a wealth of entertainment, including the second consecutive collaboration between StyleWeekOC and the Newport Beach Film Festival to ignite the conversation between film and fashion. The 14th edition of StyleWeekOC, taking place October 15–19 at Fashion Island will celebrate the intersection of film and fashion with runway shows, beauty activations, red carpet moments, and panel discussions. Highlights include celebrity-driven conversations featuring “Emily in Paris” star and fashion maverick Ashley Park in partnership with Women’s Wear Daily, as well as an appearance by actor and author Penn Badgley, who will present his new book Crushmore alongside his “Podcrushed” podcast cohosts Sophie Ansari and Nava Kavelin.
For more info on the 26th Annual Newport Beach Film Festival, visit www.newportbeachfilmfest.com!
