The Bolinas Film Festival is a four-day celebratory event that brings to the Bolinas and the West Marin Community innovative and exciting films in the feature, documentary, experimental, and short film categories.
The festival joyously weaves in a bounty of local immersion activities, including community gatherings, educational, culinary, and other experiences that delight the senses, celebrate storytelling, and exalt the vitality of the village.
September 21 - 24, 2023
The Starlight Theater
5 Brighton Avenue, Bolinas, California
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All screenings will be held at the Calvary Presbyterian Church in downtown Bolinas.
We've transformed the historic church into the Starlight Theater, complete with cinema-inspired decor,
improved seating, and high-end audio and visual equipment.
We can't wait to see you there!
By the Day
SUNDAY, SEPT. 17, 2:00-5:00 PM
Artist's Lounge
Smiley's Saloon, 41 Wharf Road, Bolinas
SCREENPLAY TABLE READ: PULP FICTION
Before the festival officially launches, immerse yourself in the world of memorable characters and witty dialogue as we bring the iconic "Pulp Fiction" screenplay to life. We are thrilled to partner with Smiley’s Saloon to present a Table Read of the full Pulp Fiction Script! This free event is open to everyone! Our own local town characters will be taking on the roles of Jules, Vincent, Mia, and more… This event is free and everyone is invited!
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Free community event!
THURSDAY, SEPT. 21, 5:30-9:00 PM
Calvary Church, 5 Brighton Ave, Bolinas, CA
GALA NIGHT
Mix and mingle during the opening night as you enjoy a special Gala event, including light jazz by musical duo Piro Patton and Jon Francis, an earth / air / fire / water culinary them catered by Kate Sylvan, a special welcoming ceremony, and the screening of four inspiring short films.
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FRIDAY, SEPT. 22, 5:00-9:00 PM
Coast Café / Starlight Theater
Downtown Bolinas
THE BASH
Join us for a festive Italian-style dinner at the Coast Cafe with live music by LoWatters followed by a procession to the theater led by artist Ernesto Sanchez before a the special Friday night screening of Coup 53.
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5-6:30 PM Spaghetti Dinner at the Coast Cafe ($30)
6:45 Procession with Enesto Sanchez from dinner to the theater
7 PM Screening: Coup 53
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Friday experiences:
The Language of Birds 9:00-11:00 AM
Gospel Flat Farm Tour: 12:00-1:30
SATURDAY, SEPT. 23 1:00-9:00 PM
Multiple Screenings and Panel Discussion
Calvary Church, 5 Brighton Ave, Bolinas, CA
BOUNTIFUL BOLINAS
Select from a variety of morning local experiences followed by a day of films and panel discussions. Enjoy delicious reimagined movie snacks with your films throughout the afternoon and evening.
Films screen at 1:00, 4:00 and 7:00.
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Following the 1:00 screening of High Country, enjoy a Panel Discussion on the topic of Nourishing Community with filmmaker Conor Hagan and other esteemed community members including:​ innovative farmer Dennis Dierks, community artist Harriett Kossman, Social/Political activist/investor Megan Matson, Dr. Anna O'Malley, and community advocate John Borg.
Panel moderated by KWMR's own Jeffrey Manson!
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Saturday experiences:
The Language of Birds 9:00-11:00 AM
Mt. Tam Hike: 9:00-12:00
SUNDAY, SEPT. 24 1:00-7:00 PM
LOCAL LOVE & CLOSING PARTY
1 - 5 PM / Free screenings all afternoon for the community, featuring local and international short films.
Seats offered on a first-come first-serve basis. No tickets required. No reserved seating.
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Sunday experience:
Yoga by the Sea 10:00-11:30 AM
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4 -7 PM / ARTIST LOUNGE CLOSING PARTY
Smiley’s Saloon, 41 Wharf Road, Bolinas
Be inspired in the company of local filmmakers, actors, artists, and other festival guests! Step into the Artist's Lounge, where creativity runs free. To celebrate the wrap of this inaugural event, enjoy a Closing Party at the Artist's Lounge, which will be at Smiley’s during the run of the festival!
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This event is free and everyone is invited. Special cocktails, mocktails, and snacks will be available for purchase.
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Free!