Festival to Feature Ventura Filmmaker

A Ventura filmmaker will be featured prominently in the second annual Channel Islands Independent Film & Video Festival next month.

Festival director Luis Guereca said the opening day screening of “Luminarias,” a romantic comedy about four Latinas written by Ventura resident Evelina Fernandez, is in keeping with his desire to bring prominence to local filmmakers.

“The film is very exciting because it’s an example of how we will actually be able to showcase the very best work from Ventura County artists,” Guereca said. “Obviously we are hoping to publicize local film production and most of this is a showcase for local talent.”

Billed as the premier film festival in the county, the event from Nov. 10 to 14 will feature screenings in several theaters including the Century 10 in Ventura and Paseo Camarillo Cinemas.

The festival includes new independent feature films, documentaries, two short-film programs, a panel discussion with filmmakers and an awards ceremony honoring those selected as the festival’s best offerings.

Among the notable entries, said Guereca, is “Naturally Native,” one of the first feature films made by an entirely American Indian cast and crew. “Bellyfruit,” a fast-paced trilogy that explores how love and desperation can come together and explode in the anguish of broken dreams and ruined lives, is another film expected to grab attention, Guereca said.

Festival schedules and advance ticket sales for individual screenings, as well as a festival pass, can be acquired by calling 385-7844.