In a significant celebration of filmmaking artistry, this year’s Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) will host a rare Director’s Panel, gathering all five 2025 nominees for the Academy Award for Best Director. Set to take place at the historic Arlington Theatre on February 10 at 8:00 PM PT, the event precedes the 97th Academy Awards and promises a one-of-a-kind experience where cinematic luminaries discuss their craft and storytelling philosophies.
Celebrating Filmmaking Excellence
Roger Durling, the executive director of SBIFF, expressed his enthusiastic anticipation for this exceptional event. “What a rare and astonishing opportunity to get the chance to have the five nominated directors for this year’s Oscars in the same room and hear them speak about their craft,” Durling remarked. Partnering with The Hollywood Reporter, SBIFF brings movie lovers and filmmakers closer to directors whose works have reshaped cinematic boundaries this awards season.
The directors participating include:
- Jacques Audiard (Emilia Pérez): Audiard melds poetic sensibilities with gripping narratives, exemplified by his thought-provoking work on Emilia Pérez.
- Sean Baker (Anora): Known for his intimate depictions of marginalized communities, Baker delivers a poignant slice of life with Anora.
- Brady Corbet (The Brutalist): A filmmaker unafraid of risks, Corbet presents a visually daring tale that pushes artistic boundaries.
- Coralie Fargeat (The Substance): Fargeat combines intense visuals with emotional storytelling, making The Substance a bold entry into genre cinema.
- James Mangold (A Complete Unknown): An Oscar veteran, Mangold brings the life of Bob Dylan to the screen in this biographical music drama that masterfully intertwines narrative and melody.
More Than Just a Celebration
This panel goes beyond merely honoring these directors; it’s also a unique opportunity for aspiring filmmakers and cinephiles to glean insights into creative processes, narrative challenges, and cinematic innovations. With each nominee representing a different background and storytelling philosophy, attendees can expect a compelling dialogue filled with diverse perspectives.
From Baker’s minimalist approaches to Fargeat’s bold visual style, the Directors of the Year panel will illuminate how contemporary filmmakers are redefining storytelling in the ever-evolving landscape of cinema. Notably, this is the only pre-Oscars gathering where the quintet will take the same stage, offering fans rare behind-the-scenes access to the creative minds shaping modern cinema.
SBIFF: A Tradition of Excellence
Since its founding in 1986, the Santa Barbara International Film Festival has become a cornerstone of the awards-season circuit. Over the years, it has honored the talents of filmmakers such as Greta Gerwig, Alfonso Cuarón, and Quentin Tarantino. The inclusion of 2025’s directors on its prestigious Directors of the Year platform continues the festival’s tradition of recognizing innovative cinematic achievements.
What Lies Ahead on the Road to the Oscars
The February 10 panel will not only celebrate these filmmakers but may also offer clues ahead of the March 2 Academy Awards. With ongoing shifts in distribution methods, storytelling trends, and evolving audience habits, the insights shared during the discussion will be invaluable for understanding the state of contemporary cinema.
Don’t Miss It
Tickets for this highly sought-after event are already in demand, and it promises to be a highlight of the festival season. For anyone passionate about film, this once-in-a-lifetime panel offers an unparalleled chance to connect with the creative genius of modern cinema’s most celebrated directors.
Learn more about the panel and ticket availability by visiting the official Hollywood Reporter article.