Author - Jerry Paxton

Visions of Mana Xbox Developer Direct Trailer

2024/01/24
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News, Xbox Series X News

Square Enix Ltd. revealed brand-new details about Visions of Mana™, the first mainline entry to the beloved Mana series in over 15 years. The developer showcase featured Mana Series Producer, Masaru Oyamada, and Mana Series Creator, Koichi Ishii, who introduced players to the newly imagined world of Mana and provided a deeper look at the game’s development process and action-packed gameplay. Visions of Mana launches in Summer 2024 on PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC and PC via STEAM®.

The new gameplay and behind-the-scenes footage provides fans and newcomers alike with a closer look at some of the latest gameplay features, monsters and creatures in Visions of Mana. Mana Series Producer, Masaru Oyamada, revealed new details about Visions of Mana’s combat, including the new addition of the aerial combat system, which will take players to new heights during battle and enable physical attacks with weapons and magic attacks mid-air. Fans can also expect to see the return of series staple, the Elementals. These assist players during battle in the form of specialized items, with each weapon producing a different effect in combat according to its respective element, allowing for a fast-paced, flexible fighting style.

Players were also introduced to a new companion they can expect to encounter in Visions of Mana called the “pikuls.” Designed by Mana Series Creator, Koichi Ishii, the adorable new companion takes inspiration from animals and mythology and will help players traverse the game’s expansive ground map as they explore the vibrant world in Visions of Mana.

SQUARE ENIX® also revealed that the Visions of Mana soundtrack will feature a track list of 100 songs at launch, all of which have been composed or received contributions from musical creators who lent their talents to previous Mana titles, including Hiroki Kikuta, Tsuyoshi Sekito and Ryo Yamazaki. Visions of Mana will also feature a new adaptive music system, which will allow players to seamlessly transition from map exploration into battles and heighten their sense of urgency through the arrangement of background music which will change the moment players enter or leave combat.

Since the series’ debut in 1993 as MYSTIC QUEST™, a spin-off of the FINAL FANTASY series, Mana games have immersed players in bright vibrant worlds, breathtaking environments, heartwarming characters and high fantasy storylines across many genres and platforms. Based on 30 years of legacy, Mana Series Producer, Masaru Oyamada, and his team are incorporating everything they have learned from the last 17 Mana games to ensure that Visions of Mana is a faithful addition to the series that fans know and love, while also offerings fans and newcomers a fresh new experience with an all-new story, characters and gameplay mechanics.

Ghostrunner 2 Dragon Pack Revealed

2024/01/24
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, PlayStation 5 News, Windows PC News, Xbox Series X News

Ghostrunner 2, the first-person cyberpunk-action thriller by leading video game publisher 505 Games and developer One More Level celebrates the Year of The Dragon with long-awaited free content updates. As part of the Lunar New Year celebration, a much sought-after Chinese VO will now be featured from February 8th, along with an expansion of the current ‘Roguerunner.exe Mode’ that will require mastery of Jack’s wingsuit, more parkour elements, and vicious enemy encounters.

For fans who have bought either the Season Pass or Brutal Edition, February 8th will also see the launch of the deadly new Dragon Pack Expansion which contains cosmetic content, all themed around the Year of the Dragon. Also available as a standalone purchase at $4.99, the new content includes…

  • Three sword skins
  • Three hand skins
  • A brand new motorcycle skin

Nominated for Action Game Of The Year at the 2023 Game Awards, Ghostrunner 2 is bursting with new powers, upgradeable abilities, traversal mechanics, an expanded narrative, deeper world building, and devilish new enemies. Every kill is earned.

For those yet to experience Ghostrunner 2, it will also be on sale across selected platforms during this time, with anywhere between 30% and 50% off the MSRP. Head to Steam, PlayStation, Xbox Series S|X for more details.

Prison Architect 2 Announcement Trailer

2024/01/23
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News

Paradox Interactive and Double Eleven today announced Prison Architect 2, the 3D successor to their prison management simulator. The game offers deeper simulation, greater player control, an inhabitant behavior system and creative options to define the next generation of management gameplay. Prison Architect 2 launches on March 26 on Steam, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5 for a suggested retail price of $39.99 / £34.99 / €39.99. Enterprising Architects can pre-order Prison Architect 2 on PC today.

Prison Architect 2 offers advanced simulation systems, enabling players to construct intricate compounds with a high degree of creative freedom in a 3D environment. From building elaborate structures to managing inmates’ needs while maintaining the facility’s financial stability, Prison Architect 2 expands gameplay and creative tools across the board, for an engaging sandbox experience. The game also introduces a connection system between the prisoners, who will make friends or enemies with each other, impacting who they will hang out, partner or fight with. Prison Architect 2 brings prison construction and management gameplay to a new level by entering the third dimension and bringing deeper simulation than ever before.

“In Prison Architect 2, our team set out to create the next level in management gameplay. A greater degree of player freedom, impactful choices, and inmate simulation come together to provide an enhanced presentation of prison management, in a 3D world. Much loved features make a return to help you manage your inmates, quell riots, prevent escapes and share your prisons, but now cross-platform! In addition to a new upgrade system, a new Career Mode, and more.” said Gareth Wright, Game Director at Double Eleven. “We look forward to seeing how players get creative with multiple floors and catwalks to finally construct and expand in 3D. And then optimize and balance their prison’s safety, security and self-betterment.”

Arrow Video US – February 2024 Release Schedule

2024/01/23
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, Movie News, News

Arriving on February 13th is the unique action/crime thriller Fear is the Key, based on a novel by Alistair MacLean (The Guns of Navarone, Where Eagles Dare), and featuring car-chase choreography by the legendary Carey Loftin (French Connection, Vanishing Point, Bullitt). The story offers surprising twists at every turn, including an assassination, an unexpected witness, a kidnapping, and an intricate conspiracy with millions of dollars at its center. Director Michael Tuchner brings MacLean’s complex international espionage bestseller to life. The film stars Barry Newman, Suzy Kendall, John Vernon, Dolph Sweet, and Sir Ben Kingsley in his feature film debut.

The Blu-ray special features include a new audio commentary by filmmaker and critic Howard S. Berger; a visual essay, featurettes and interviews; the theatrical trailer; a reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Nathanael Marsh; a double-sided foldout poster featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Nathanael Marsh; and an illustrated collector’s booklet with new writing by filmmaker and critic Sean Hogan.

The Shaolin Plot kicks Valentine’s Day into high gear with a 2K restoration from the original film elements. The film stars Sammo Hung in his final collaboration with directing legend and mentor Huang Feng. With only the Shaolin and Wu-Tang missing from his collection of martial arts manuals, Prince Daglen (Chan Sing) concocts a plan to steal both with the aid of a vicious agent (Hung). But Daglen didn’t count on the heroics of the surviving Shaolin and Wu-Tang warriors (Casanova Wong, Kwan Yung Moon, and James Tien) to thwart his plot. Intrigue, double-crossing, and feats of heroism all culminate in one of the greatest action film finales ever. Filmmaker Huang Feng is one of the most influential martial arts filmmakers in the world and was instrumental in the careers of John Woo (Hardboiled, Face/Off) and Stanley Tong (Supercop, Rumble in the Bronx).

The Blu-ray special features include a commentary by martial arts film experts Frank Djeng & Michael Worth; commentary by action cinema experts Mike Leeder & Arne Venema; alternate English credits; the original theatrical trailers; a double-sided fold-out poster featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Ilan Sheady; a reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Ilan Sheady; and an illustrated collector’s booklet featuring new writing by Peter Glagowski.

Lionsgate Announce: The Expendables 4-Film Collection

2024/01/23
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, Movie News, News

Return to all the global superstars, explosive stunts, and mind-boggling weaponry when The Expendables 4-Film Collection arrives on Blu-ray + DVD + Digital March 5 from Lionsgate. With the fourth film’s release in 2023 and the franchise grossing over $780 million at the box office, this is the ultimate Expendables collection, featuring four mission-ready art cards. The Expendables 4-Film Collection will be available for the suggested retail price of $44.99 on Blu-ray + DVD + Digital.

OFFICIAL SYNOPSIS
This action-packed, star-studded bundle includes all four films in The Expendables franchise. In The Expendables, the elite mercenaries (Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jason Statham) are caught in a web of betrayal and deceit when they’re hired by a shady operative (Bruce Willis) to overthrow a South American dictator. In The Expendables 2, a deranged arms dealer (Jean-Claude Van Damme) turns the team’s (Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren) easy paycheck into a tragedy, while The Expendables 3 pits old school vs. new blood when Barney Ross and his team (Wesley Snipes, Harrison Ford) square off against a longtime foe (Mel Gibson). In Expend4bles, a new group of mercenaries (50 Cent, Megan Fox, Tony Jaa) joins the “old guard” to help fight an arms dealer with his own private army.

Battle The Mutant Goblin Queen In New MARVEL Future Fight Update

2024/01/23
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, Mobile News, News, Trailers / Videos

Netmarble, a leading developer and publisher of high-quality mobile games, launches a new game update for its blockbuster mobile RPG MARVEL Future Fight. Agents can experience several new game contents including a new epic quest, characters, character-tier upgrades and more.

This new game update adds four new characters: Havok, Exodus, Hope Summers, and Madelyne Pryor. A new uniform is now available for Rachel Summers.

Agents can participate in “Goblin Queen,” a new Epic Quest featuring stories of the villainous mutant clone and have the opportunity to obtain this update’s Havok, Hope Summers, and Madelyne Pryor. Additionally, five new items have been added in the latest Odin’s Blessing update.

Character tier upgrades have been added for Cyclops (Tier-4 with new Striker Skill), Havok (Tier-3 with new Ultimate Skill) and Madelyne Pryor (Tier-3 with new Ultimate Skill). Awakened Skills have been added to select heroes including Rachel Summers, Hope Summers and Kid Omega.

MARVEL Future Fight has over 150 million players across the world with the game currently available worldwide in the App Store® and Google Play™.

For more information, please visit http://marvelfuturefight.netmarble.com.

Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Review

2024/01/23
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, Peripheral Review, Peripherals News, Reviews

The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro arrives with an absolute goal in mind – not just to be another great gaming keyboard, but to redefine the very notion of what a keyboard can do. It features cutting-edge optical key switches, unparalleled customization, and an outstanding build quality that promises to satisfy the most demanding gamers and tech enthusiasts alike. But does it deliver on its lofty promises? Buckle up, because we’re diving deep into the world of the Huntsman V3 Pro.

Unboxing the Huntsman V3 Pro is an experience in itself. The sleek, minimalist packaging whispers luxury, and the keyboard itself is a thing of beauty. The brushed aluminum top plate exudes a cool solidity, while the double-shot PBT keycaps feel substantial and textured. The magnetic wrist rest snaps into place with a satisfying click, adding a plush cushion for marathon gaming sessions.

The Huntsman V3 Pro showcases Razer’s Chroma RGB lighting system in all its glory. Each key is individually assignable, allowing for intricate lighting effects and mesmerizing animations. The built-in underglow adds another layer of visual depth, casting a colorful halo around the keyboard. Customization options are endless, thanks to the comprehensive Razer Synapse 3 software. From static colors to reactive effects, you can tailor the lighting to your mood, game, or even the rhythm of your music.

But the true star of the Huntsman V3 Pro is Razer’s Second Generation Analog Optical switches. Unlike traditional mechanical switches with a single actuation point, these support a full range of actuation from 0.1 to 4.0 mm, offering unprecedented levels of control and precision. The Rapid Trigger mode takes customization to another level. With a dedicated toggle switch, you can adjust the actuation point on the fly, enabling lightning-fast bursts of fire in FPS games or rapid-fire commands in MOBAs. It’s a game-changer, literally, giving you an edge in competitive situations. During my time with the keyboard, I played everything from first-person shooters like Destiny 2 and CoD: Warzone to my current favorite game on the market: Baldur’s Gate 3 (so much BG3…). No matter what type of game I was playing, the Huntsman V3 Pro was more than up to the challenge. I preferred to create different profiles for every game so that I could truly dial in the performance of the keyboard to my liking.While the Huntsman V3 Pro shines brightest while gaming, its talents extend far beyond just helping me play Baldur’s Gate 3. The typing experience is a joy, with the switches offering a satisfyingly snappy response and minimal noise. The double-shot PBT keycaps are resistant to wear and tear, ensuring crisp legends for years to come. I also LOVE their typing feel. The texture and quality make the keys seem like something you’d find on some high-end industrial control panel at NASA. Furthermore, the dedicated media controls and multi-function keys make it a productivity powerhouse, ideal for content creators and professionals alike. Heck – I am even typing this review on the keyboard!

No product is perfect, and the Huntsman V3 Pro has its quirks. The premium price tag might intimidate some budget-conscious buyers, and while the wrist rest is comfortable, its detachable nature might put some off. Plus, I have found that my fingers tend to rest on the WASD keys while not in use (an old gamer habit), and I tend to put slight pressure on the keys, which triggers them. But these are all small gripes in an otherwise outstanding product.

The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro is a truly remarkable keyboard. It pushes the boundaries of performance and customization, offering gamers and tech enthusiasts a tool that is a joy to use and play with. The innovative Analog Optical switches, with the stunning build quality and dazzling Chroma RGB lighting, create an exhilarating and empowering experience. While the price might be a hurdle for some, the unique features and sheer quality make the Huntsman V3 Pro a worthy investment for anyone who demands the best from their peripherals. It is available now for $249.99 at Razer’s official website.

Overall Score: 5 out of 5

TIEBREAK: Official game of the ATP and WTA Announced

2024/01/23
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, Windows PC News

NACON and Big Ant Studios are pleased to announce that TIEBREAK: Official game of the ATP and WTA, the new tennis game from the creators of AO Tennis 2 and Tennis World Tour 2, is being released on early access for PC (Steam) today. It will be released on PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and Nintendo SwitchTM later this year.

TIEBREAK is the official tennis game of the ATP and WTA. Players with controller in hand can take their style of play to the biggest courts and make it count against the computer or the community in multiplayer mode.

Today’s early access launch offers players the chance to take to the virtual court, as the 2024 ATP and WTA tennis seasons kick into gear. The developers’ aim in this phase is to use player feedback to further develop the most authentic and ambitious tennis game around.

The early access version includes an initial set of official ATP and WTA tennis players including Belinda Bencic, Taylor Fritz, Marta Kostyuk, Petra Kvitova, Nick Kyrgios, Daniil Medvedev, Alex de Minaur, Andy Murray, Naomi Osaka, Maria Sakkari, Shuai Zhang, Alexander Zverev. It also includes Quick Match mode, allowing for play on all ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 series courts and Basic Tutorials will help players learn and level up their games.

This early access phase will incorporate additional official WTA/ATP licensed content, new game modes, improvements and game balancing over the coming months, with regular updates right up to the game’s final release:

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre Community Check In w/ Wes and Matt

2024/01/23
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, PlayStation 5 News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News, Xbox Series X News

In a livestream broadcasted to their community yesterday, the team at Gun Interactive shared some exciting new details regarding their mutiplayer horror title The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, including new characters, a new map, and more!

Head of Brand Strategy Matt Szep and CEO/President Wes Keltner covered these topics across a wide-ranging discussion, which is available to view in its entirety on YouTube. Check out the recording below!

The expectation is that the updates and content listed below will be launched within the next 90 days. Some will arrive sooner, while others might not be available until closer to the 90-day mark.

Execution Packs & Weapon Skins

Multiple new execution packs will soon be added to the game, many of which are far more brutal than those currently available to players. Creative Director Ronnie Hobbs “pushed the dial a little further toward the dangerous to bring [these executions] to life.”

As well, weapon skins will soon be available, allowing players who focus on playing as Family members to customize their favorite weaponry.

Cosmetics

During the livestream, Matt and Wes announced that they will be partnering with the studio Art Bully to bring new styles to everyone’s favorite Family and Victim characters.

Two of the most notable? Bride Sissy and the oft-requested Shirtless Johnny, both of which will be free for all players once launched.

Museum Mode

Similar to a photo mode, this will allow players to better appreciate the in-game levels, and to take and share photos of their own. As well, this mode will showcase trivia and behind-the-scenes footage from the game and the original 1974 film!

New Characters & New Map

The Gun Interactive team confirmed that a new Victim and new Family member are both in development, while still requiring further fine-tuning and testing. More key details about these characters will be shared closer to their launch.

The new map, also in development, is called The Mill, and has a wildly different layout than currently available maps, with more verticality and four distinct levels, including a dry creekbed.

More details on everything in this post can be viewed at the livestream VOD on the Gun Interactive Twitch channel here.

Santa Barbara International Film Festival 2024 Film Linup

2024/01/22
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, Movie News, News

The Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) announced today the highly anticipated lineup for the 39th edition, which will run February 7 to 17, 2024. The festival will showcase 45 world premieres and 77 U.S. premieres from 48 countries, along with tributes featuring the year’s top talent, panel discussions, and free community education and outreach programs.

“We have a wonderfully eclectic program this year from 48 countries around the world,” said Claudia Puig, Programming Director of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. “We are especially proud that half of our slate of films are directed by women, and a large percentage by under-represented filmmakers. We know there will be something for everyone at our festival– and likely quite a lot for most.  Nearly three-quarters of the films we’re showcasing have never been seen before in the US. We’re excited to introduce these films to audiences and thrilled that filmmakers from nearly every continent will be on hand to meet those attending SBIFF, and share in the communal love of film.”

OPENING NIGHT

SBIFF 2024 will kick off  on Opening Night Wednesday, February 7 with the World Premiere of the documentary MADU directed by Matt Ogens and Joel ‘Kachi Benson. Both directors will be joining us in-person.

From practicing barefoot on the streets of Lagos to performing on stage in England, twelve-year-old Anthony Madu leaves his home in Nigeria to study at one of the most prestigious ballet schools in the world. Anthony, who had barely left his neighborhood in Lagos, finds himself thrust into a new world where his wildest dream is suddenly within reach. His journey is a story of extraordinary obstacles, courage, growth, and ultimately, his search for belonging.

CLOSING NIGHT

SBIFF 2024 will close on Saturday, February 17 with the World Premiere of CHOSEN FAMILY directed by Heather Graham and starring Heather Graham, Julia Stiles, Thomas Lennon, and Michael Gross. Director and cast will be joining us in-person.

Yoga teacher Ann is trying to find inner peace despite having a manic family, a miserable dating life, and an inability to say no that keeps her busy trying to fix everyone else’s problems.

THE TRIBUTES

SBIFF is an important showcase for Academy Award frontrunners, many of whom have arrived as nominees and gone on to win the Oscar. The 39th SBIFF proudly celebrates some of the year’s finest work in film. All tributes will be in person at the historic Arlington Theatre.

  • Outstanding Performer of the Year Award sponsored by Deadline honoring Bradley Cooper – Thursday, February 8 at 8:00pm. Moderated by Pete Hammond.
  • Maltin Modern Master Award Presented by Manitou Fund honoring Robert Downey Jr. – Friday, February 9 at 8:00pm. Moderated by Leonard Maltin.
  • Virtuosos Award honoring Danielle Brooks (The Color Purple), Colman Domingo (The Color Purple & Rustin), America Ferrera (Barbie), Lily Gladstone (Killers of the Flower Moon), Greta Lee (Past Lives), Charles Melton (May December), Da’Vine Joy Randolph (The Holdovers), and Andrew Scott (All of Us Strangers) – Saturday, February 10 at 8:00pm. Moderated by Dave Karger.
  • Variety Artisans Award sponsored by Variety – Sunday, February 11 at 11:00am. Honorees to be announced. Moderated by Jazz Tangcay.
  • American Riviera Award honoring Mark Ruffalo – Sunday, February 11 at 8:00pm. Moderated by Anne Thompson.
  • Outstanding Directors of the Year Award sponsored by The Hollywood Reporter – Monday, February 12 at 8:00pm. Honorees to be announced. Moderated by Scott Feinberg.
  • Montecito Award honoring Jeffrey Wright – Thursday, February 15 at 8:00pm. Moderated by Roger Durling.
  • Cinema Vanguard Award honoree and date to be announced

THE PANELS

SBIFF is renowned for creating smart, insightful panels that feature a who’s who in the world of filmmaking, including many Oscar contenders. Returning will be our annual Producers, Writers, Women’s and International Panels. All Panels will be in person at the historic Arlington Theatre. Panelists, dates and times to be announced.

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS, FREE PROGRAMS, AND OTHER MENTIONS

SBIFF Poster Designed by Acclaimed Artist Angela Perko

The 2024 SBIFF poster was painted by acclaimed artist and Santa Barbara resident Angela Perko. Like many women artists, Angela started painting later in life, after her children were older and the family business was well established. Angela and her husband own a rare bookstore, and she credits exposure to art books for sparking her interest in painting. Although she studied plein-air painting with Santa Barbara artist Michael Drury, she is essentially a self taught artist. The Canadian Group of Seven greatly influenced her early work, as well as many of the Santa Fe artists. A trip to the Yucatán had profound impact and motifs of ancient art and popular Mexican art began to appear in her work. Currently her work explores where nature and culture intersect over time and place.

Mike’s FieldTrip to the Movies – Named for renowned nature cinematographer Mike deGruy, Mike’s FieldTrip to the Movies uses filmmaking to nurture creative, confident, and culturally aware thinkers. This year’s program will be offered to 4,000+ 4th–6th grade students from Title I (low-income) schools throughout Santa Barbara County. This year will feature two in-person Q&As; Directors Joaquim Dos Santos, Justin K. Thompson, and Kemp Powers following SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE and Director Peter Sohn following ELEMENTAL. Sponsored by Montecito Bank & Trust, US Bank, Yardi, Bentson Foundation, Volentine Family Foundation.

Film Studies Program – The Film Studies Program will invite 30 undergraduate film students from across the country to the Film Festival where they’ll take part in a packed curriculum that turns the festival into an interactive classroom. Participants receive priority access to the films, panels, filmmaker seminars, tributes, as well as intimate Q&As with filmmakers.

10–10–10 Student Screenwriting and Filmmaking Mentorship and Competition – The 10-10-10 Program is made up of 20 area high school and college screenwriters and filmmakers. This year’s program includes filmmaking workshops, individual mentorship, and access to casting, visual effects, producing and sound mentors. The student screenwriters and directors are paired together and guided through the process of taking a film from script to screen. Sponsored by Kaleidoscope Productions.

Free Filmmaker Seminars – SBIFF will again present seminars with filmmakers premiering at this year’s festival. These seminars will be FREE to the public and will take place on each weekday during the Festival at Tamsen Gallery at 911 1/2 State Street.

The ADL Stand Up Award sponsored by ADL Santa Barbara/Tri-Counties – This award will be presented to a dramatic film in the festival that represents an important message consistent with ADL’s efforts “to secure justice and fair treatment for all.” The winner will be announced during the Festival.

The ASC Award for Cinematography sponsored by The American Society of Cinematographers has been added to the list of SBIFF’s 2024 awards and will recognize a film with exceptional visual composition that advances the art and science of cinematography and promotes the motion picture as an art form.

 

2024 FILMS

Below is the list of feature and short films at the 2024 SBIFF. For the complete list of films, synopses, and other special events please visit www.sbiff.org or the SBIFF app.

19 WORLD PREMIERE FEATURE FILMS (listed alphabetically)

76 Days

Directed by Joe Wein

United States

 

Alien Contact

Directed by Rick Rosenthal

United States

 

Art and Life: The Story of Jim Phillips

Directed by John Edward Makens

 

Books & Drinks

Directed by Geoffrey Cowper

Dominican Republic

 

Chosen Family

Directed by Heather Graham

United States

 

Dandelions

Directed by Basil Mironer

United States

 

Diving into the Darkness

Directed by Nays Baghai

Australia

 

Electra

Directed by Hala Matar

Bahrain

 

The Fight for Black Lives

Directed by Micere Keels

United States

 

Giants Rising

Directed by Lisa Landers

United States

 

God & Country

Directed by Dan Partland

United States

 

Lili

Directed by Sylwia Rosak

Poland

 

The Long Game

Directed by Jace Anderson

United States

 

Madu

Directed by Matt Ogens, Joel ‘Kachi Benson

United States, Nigeria, United Kingdom

 

The Movie Man

Directed by Matt Finlin

Canada

 

Okie

Directed by Kate Cobb

United States

 

Running for the Mountains

Directed by Babette Hogan, Julie Eisenberg

United States

 

Send Kelp!

Directed by Blake McWilliam

Canada

 

Veselka

Directed by Michael Fiore

United States

56 U.S. PREMIERE FEATURE FILMS (listed alphabetically)

Achilles

Directed by Farhad Delaram

Iran, France Germany

 

Andragogy

Directed by Wregas Bhanuteja

Indonesia

 

Atikamekw Suns

Directed by Chloé Leriche

Canada

 

The Ballad of a Hustler

Directed by Heitor Dhalia

United States, Brazil

 

Before It Ends (Når befrielsen kommer)

Directed by Anders Walter

Denmark

 

Birthday Girl

Directed by Michael Noer

Denmark

 

The Blue Star (La estrella azul)

Directed by Javier Macipe

Spain, Argentina

 

Cinema Laika

Directed by Veljko Vidak

France, Finland

 

Cold (Kuldi)

Directed by Erlingur Thoroddsen

Iceland

 

Cold Sigh

Directed by Nahid Azizi Sedigh

Iran

 

Coup!

Directed by Austin Stark, Joseph Schuman

United States

 

Crush: Message in a Bottle

Directed by Maya Gallus

Canada

 

Dance First

Directed by James Marsh

United Kingdom

 

Days of Happiness

Directed by Chloé Robichaud

Canada

 

Dear Jassi

Directed by Tarsem Singh Dhandwar

India

 

Disconnect Me

Directed by Alex Lykos

Australia

 

Edge of Everything

Directed by Sophia Sabella, Pablo Feldman

United States

 

El paraiso

Directed by Enrico Maria Artale

Italy

 

Estonia

Directed by

Finland, Sweden, Belgium, Estonia

 

Excursion (Ekskurzija)

Directed by Una Gunjak

 

Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia, France, Norway, Qatar

 

French Girl

Directed by James A. Woods, Nicolas Wright

Canada

 

Good Savage

Directed by Santiago Mohar Volkow

Mexico

 

Green Night

Directed by Han Shuai

Hong Kong

 

Hoard

Directed by Luna Carmoon

United Kingdom

 

Homecoming (Máhccan)

Directed by Suvi West, Anssi Kömi

Finland, Norway

 

I’m Just Here for the Riot

Directed by Asia Youngman, Kathleen Jayme

Canada

 

The King Tide

Directed by Christian Sparkes

Canada

 

The Last Daughter

Directed by Brenda Matthews, Nathaniel Schmidt

Australia

 

The Last Movie

Directed by Olaug Spissøy Kyvik

Norway

 

Let Me Go (Laissez-moi)

Directed by Maxime Rappaz

Switzerland

 

Medium

Directed by Christina Ioakeimidi

Greece

 

Mimang

Directed by Kim Tae-yang

South Korea

The Movie Teller

Directed by Lone Scherfig

Spain, France, Chile

 

Mr. Freeman

Directed by Mads Matthiesen

Denmark

 

Much Ado About Dying

Directed by Simon Chambers

Ireland

 

On Earth as in Heaven (Sur la terre comme au ciel)

Directed by Nathalie Saint-Pierre

Canada

 

On the Edge (État limite)

Directed by Nicolas Peduzzi

France

 

The Other Son

Directed by Juan Sebastián Quebrada

Colombia, France, Argentina

 

Over the Cracks (Sous le tapis)

Directed by Camille Japy

France

 

Photophobia

Directed by Ivan Ostrochovský, Pavel Pekarčík

Slovakia, Czech Republic, Ukraine

 

Point of Change

Directed by Rebecca Coley

United Kingdom, United States, Australia and Indonesia

 

Prison in the Andes (Penal Cordillera)

Directed by Felipe Carmona

Chile, Brazil

 

Queen of Bones

Directed by Robert Budreau

United States

 

 

A Ravaging Wind

Directed by Paula Hernández

Argentina, Uruguay

 

The Reeds

Directed by Cemil Ağacıkoğlu

Turkey

 

Rickerl

Directed by Adrian Goiginger

Austria, Germany

 

The Rooster

Directed by Mark Leonard Winter

Australia

 

Seagrass

Directed by Meredith Hama-Brown

Canada

 

Snow Leopard (雪豹)

Directed by Pema Tseden

China

 

Suze

Directed by Linsey Stewart, Dane Clark

Canada

 

That They May Face the Rising Sun

Directed by Pat Collins

Ireland

 

The Tundra Within Me (Eallogierdu)

Directed by Sara Margrethe Oskal

Norway

 

Unmoored

Directed by Caroline Ingvarsson

United Kingdom

 

Until the Music is Over (Até que a Música Pare)

Directed by Cristiane Oliveira

Brazil, Italy

 

Uproar

Directed by Paul Middleditch, Hamish Bennett

New Zealand

 

The Vourdalak

Directed by Adrien Beau

France

NON PREMIERE FEATURE FILMS (listed alphabetically)

Abroad

Directed by Giovanni Fumu

South Korea, United States

 

All You Hear is Noise

Directed by Ned Castle, Matt Day

United States

 

Another Happy Day

Directed by Nora Fiffer

United States

 

Ashima

Directed by Kenji Tsukamoto

United States

 

Blaga’s Lessons (Urotcite na Blaga)

Directed by Stephan Komandarev

Bulgaria

 

Brothers (Bratři)

Directed by Tomáš Mašín

Czech Republic, Germany, Slovakia

 

Bye Bye Tiberias

Directed by Lina Soualem

France, Palestine, Belgium, Qatar

 

City of Wind (Sèr sèr salhi)

Directed by Lkhagvadulam Purev-Ochir

Mongolia, Portugal, Netherlands, Germany, Qatar, France

 

The Contestant

Directed by Clair Titley

United Kingdom

 

Copa 71

Directed by Rachel Ramsay, James Erskine

United Kingdom

 

The Cowboy and the Queen

Directed by Andrea Nevins

United States

 

Eat Bitter

Directed by Pascale Appora-Gnekindy, Ningyi Sun

Central African Republic, China

 

Ezra

Directed by Tony Goldwyn

United States

 

First Time Female Director

Directed by Chelsea Peretti

United States

 

First We Bombed New Mexico

Directed by Lois Lipman

United States

 

Fresh Kills

Directed by Jennifer Esposito

United States

 

A Happy Day

Directed by Hisham Zaman

Norway

 

I’ll Be Right There

Directed by Brendan Walsh

United States

 

In the Rearview

Directed by

Poland, France, Ukraine

 

Joika

Directed by James Napier Robertson

New Zealand, Poland

 

La Extorsión

Directed by Martino Zaidelis

Argentina, USA

 

Limbo

Directed by Ivan Sen

Australia

 

A Look Through His Lens

Directed by Matthew Berkowitz, Gregory Hoblit

United States, France, Ireland, United Kingdom

 

Lucha: A Wrestling Tale

Directed by Marco Ricci

United States

 

Mourning in Lod

Directed by Hilla Medalia

United States

 

One Life

Directed by James Hawes

United Kingdom

 

Pet Shop Days

Directed by Olmo Schnabel

United States, Italy, United Kingdom, Mexico

 

Seven Blessings

Directed by Ayelet Menahemi

Israel

 

Shari & Lamb Chop

Directed by Lisa D’Apolito

United States

 

Show Her the Money

Directed by Ky Dickens

United States

 

Sira

Directed by Apolline Traoré

Burkina Faso, France, Germany, Senegal

 

Solitude

Directed by Ninna Pálmadóttir

Iceland

 

Sorry/Not Sorry

Directed by Caroline Suh, Cara Mones

United States

 

The Taste of Things

Directed by Trần Anh Hùng

France

 

Thank You Very Much

Directed by Alex Braverman

United States

 

TransMexico

Directed by Claudia Sanchez

United States

 

We Are Guardians

Directed by Edivan Guajajara, Chelsea Greene, Rob Grobman

United States, Brazil

 

We Grown Now

Directed by Minhal Baig

United States

 

Wicked Little Letters

Directed by Thea Sharrock

United Kingdom

 

Without Air

Directed by Katalin Moldovai

Hungary

2024 SBIFF SHORT FILMS – (listed alphabetically)

26 WORLD PREMIERES AND 21 U.S. PREMIERES

72

Directed by Marissa Chibás

United States

World Premiere

 

841

Directed by Rachel Burnett

United States

World Premiere

 

The ABCs of Book Banning

Directed by Sheila Nevins

United States

 

Above & Within

Directed by Patrick Hall

United States

World Premiere

 

Alarms (Apnées)

Directed by Nicolas Panay

France

US Premiere

 

And Now I Lay Me Down

Directed by Rani DeMuth

United States

World Premiere

 

Area Boy

Directed by Iggy London

United Kingdom

US Premiere

 

The Ballad of Tita and the Machines

Directed by Miguel Angel Caballero

United States

 

Basri and Salma in a Never-ending Comedy (Basri & Salma dalam Komedi yang Terus Berputar)

Directed by Khozy Rizal

Indonesia

 

A Bird Called Memory (Pássaro Memória)

Directed by Leonardo Martinelli

Brazil, United Kingdom

US Premiere

 

The Birthday Party (Il compleanno di Enrico)

Directed by Francesco Sossai

Germany, France, Italy

US Premiere

 

A Body Called Life

Directed by Spencer MacDonald

United States

World Premiere

 

Boo

Directed by Genevieve Aniello

United States

World Premiere

 

Breaking Silence

Directed by Amy Bench, Annie Silverstein

United States

 

The Breakthrough

Directed by Daniel Sinclair

United States

 

Dammi

Directed by Yann Mounir Demange

France, United Kingdom

US Premiere

 

Dog Apartment (Koerkorter)

Directed by Priit Tender

Estonia

 

Don’t Cry, Gabriel (Pleure pas Gabriel)

Directed by Mathilde Chavanne

France

US Premiere

 

Farms and Tables

Directed by Taylor Scott Mason, Noah Forbes

United States

World Premiere

 

Forget Me Again

Directed by Noah Freeman Hecht

United States

World Premiere

 

Fracture

Directed by Joel Novoa, Marilu Godinez

United States

World Premiere

 

The Golden West

Directed by Tom Berkeley, Ross White

Ireland

 

Good Boy

Directed by Tom Stuart

United Kingdom

US Premiere

 

Gorgeous

Directed by Morgan Gould

United States

World Premiere

 

Gorgo (Γοργώ)

Directed by Veniamin Gialouris

Australia

US Premiere

 

Greetings From Summerland

Directed by Joey Szalkiewicz, Harry Rabin

United States

World Premiere

 

Help Me Understand

Directed by Aemilia Scott

United States

 

I’m on Fire

Directed by Michael Spiccia

United States

 

In the Shadow of the Cypress (Dar saaye sarv)

Directed by Hossein Molayemi, Shirin Sohani

Iran

US Premiere

 

Incroci

Directed by Francesca de Fusco

Italy, United States

US Premiere

 

Jane Austen’s Period Drama

Directed by Julia Aks, Steve Pinder

United States

World Premiere

 

Joy

Directed by Aner Etxebarria Moral

Spain

 

Magda

Directed by Adela Kaczmarek

Poland

US Premiere

 

Making Babies (Faire un enfant)

Directed by Eric K. Boulianne

Canada

 

A Man’s Man

Directed by Myles Desenberg

United Kingdom

US Premiere

 

Marungka Tjalatjunu (Dipped in black)

Directed by Matthew Thorne, Derik Lynch

Australia

 

The Meatseller

Directed by Margherita Giusti

US Premiere

 

Merv

Directed by Sam Roebling

United States

 

My Dead Dad

Directed by Abby Ellis, Erik Osterholm

United States

World Premiere

 

Nada De Todo Esto

Directed by Patricio Martínez, Francisco Cantón

Argentina, Spain, United Statess

US Premiere

Next Train Out

Directed by Darby Naughton

United States

World Premiere

 

Nine Lives

Directed by Jessie Davidson

United States

World Premiere

 

Nun or Never!

Directed by Heta Jäälinoja

Finland

 

On the 8th Day (Au 8ème Jour)

Directed by Agathe Sénéchal, Alicia Massez, Elise Debruyne, Flavie Carin, Théo Duhautois

France

US Premiere

 

The Orchestra Chuck Built

Directed by Christopher Stoudt

United States

 

Our Neighbors, the Peacocks

Directed by Callie Barlow

United States

World Premiere

 

Panadrilo

Directed by Marcela Heilbron

Panamá

World Premiere

 

Primero, Sueño

Directed by Andrés Lira

United States

 

Relationship to Patient

Directed by Caroline Creaghead

United States

World Premiere

 

Relighting Candles: The Tim Sullivan Story

Directed by Zeberiah Newman, Michiel Thomas

United States

 

The Salt on Our Skin

Directed by Alessandra Puig-Santana, Reese Raygoza, Lukas Olesinski, Tess McCormick, Audrey Engelsgjerd, Michelle Truong

United States

World Premiere

 

Save the Cat

Directed by Jordan Matthew Horowitz

United States

World Premiere

Savi the Cat

Directed by Bryan Tucker, Netsie Tjirongo

United States

 

Sea Salt

Directed by Leila Basma

Czech Republic, Lebanon, Qatar

US Premiere

 

Seasons (四·季)

Directed by Xin Li

China

World Premiere

 

Sira

Directed by Mariame N’Diaye

France

US Premiere

 

The Skates

Directed by Halima Ouardiri

Canada

 

Sludge: A PFAS Uprising

Directed by Jeffrey Christian

United States

World Premiere

 

Someone Lied on the Roommate Form

Directed by Najee Werners

United States

World Premiere

 

Someone’s Trying to Get in

Directed by Colin Nixon

Canada

World Premiere

 

Taking Back the Groove

Directed by Celia Aniskovich

United States

 

The Voice of Others (La voix des autres)

Directed by Fatima Kaci

France

US Premiere

 

Two Cents & A Footlong

Directed by Kanin Guntzelman

United States

World Premiere

 

Unbraided

Directed by Caroline Renard

United States

World Premiere

 

Wander to Wonder

Directed by Nina Gantz

Netherlands, France, Belgium

US Premiere

 

Where the Sun Always Shines

Directed by Rosie Baldwin

United Kingdom

 

Wild Summon

Directed by Karni Arieli, Saul Freed

United Kingdom

 

Will You Remember Me?

Directed by Will Dowler

United States

World Premiere

 

WOACA

Directed by Mackenzie Davis

United Kingdom

US Premiere

ABOUT THE SANTA BARBARA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

The Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts and educational organization dedicated to discovering and showcasing the best in independent and international cinema. Over the past 39 years, SBIFF has become one of the leading film festivals in the United States – attracting 100,000 attendees and offering 11 days of 200+ films, tributes, and symposiums, fulfilling their mission to engage, enrich, and inspire the Santa Barbara community through film.

Sponsors of the 39th SBIFF include: Manitou Fund, Black Market Spirits, DAOU Vineyards, Deadline, The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, Panavision, Santa Barbara City, US Bank, Montecito Bank & Trust, Yardi, Kaleidoscope Productions, ADL Santa Barbara/Tri-Counties, American Society of Cinematographers, John C. Mithun Foundation, Audrey Hillman Fisher Foundation, Northern Trust, Netflix, Visit The Santa Ynez Valley, Bentson Foundation, Volentine Family Foundation, Toad&Co, Topa Topa Brewing Company, Boxed Water Is Better, Saige Private Wealth, El Encanto and many more generous supporters.

SBIFF continues its commitment to education and the community throughout many free educational programs and events. In 2016, SBIFF entered a new era with the acquisition of the historic and beloved Riviera Theatre. After a capital campaign and renovation, the theatre is now SBIFF’s new state-of-the-art, year-round home, showing new international and independent films every day. In 2019, SBIFF opened its own Education Center in downtown Santa Barbara on State Street to serve as a home for its many educational programs and a place for creativity and learning.