Sonoma International Film Festival 2023

The 26th edition of the “Sonoma International Film Festival” returns with five days of international cinema, showcase culinary events, panels and parties.

The Sonoma International Film Festival (SIFF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the best in independent film and filmmakers from around the world, inspiring savvy film lovers, and introducing the power of film to student filmmakers. Blending a program of international film, food, wine and fun, SIFF hosts its annual festival each March, as well as special events such as SIFF Summerfest, selected films, advance screenings and special guests year-round.

This year’s edition presents a selection of three award-winning Spanish films as well as ¡Viva España! Party, an event to celebrate the culture, films, and heritage of Spain featuring Gloria Ferrer wines, beverages, music by the Carlos Herrera Trio, and more.

Spanish films at SIFF 2023

The beasts

• On Friday, March 24 at 10:15 am. At Andrews Hall at Sonoma Community Center, Sonoma.
• On Saturday, March 25 at 7:30 pm. At Prime Cinemas, 200 Siesta Way in Fiesta Plaza, Sonoma.
• Directed by Rodrigo Sorogoyen, Spain/France, 2022, 137 minutes.
• Original title: As bestas. In Spanish, French, Galician with English subtitles. Watch trailer.

In a remote village nestled deep in the lush, mountainous forestland of Galicia, French couple Antoine and Olga live a peaceful life, farming sustainably and rehabilitating old houses. The locals have tolerated the outsiders to a degree, but simmering tensions begin to boil over when Antoine becomes embroiled in local politics. As animosity intensifies, Antoine stands his ground, and the village conflict escalates beyond a point of no return.

Vasil

• On Friday, March 24 at 10:45 am. At Prime Cinemas, 200 Siesta Way in Fiesta Plaza, Sonoma.
• On Sunday, March 26 at 4:15 pm. At Prime Cinemas.
• Directed by Avelina Prat, Spain, 2022, 93 minutes. U.S. Premiere.
• In Spanish with English subtitles. Watch trailer.

In this gentle comedy exploring social differences and connections alike, a charismatic Bulgarian immigrant, extremely proficient in bridge and chess, brings new life to people he meets in the upper echelons of society. Starring Karra Elejalde (Two Many Chefs).

Two many chefs

• On Friday, March 24 at 6 pm. At Sonoma Memorial Veterans Hall, 126 First Street West, Sonoma.
• On Saturday, March 25 at 3:30 pm. At Sonoma Memorial Veterans Hall.
• Directed by Joaquín Mazón, Spain, 2022, 92 minutes.
• In Spanish with English subtitles. Watch trailer.

A high-cuisine comedy about a young chef and his amnesiac father who are inexplicably reunited after 30 years. As they work together to get a 3rd Michelin star for their family restaurant their ideas about cooking and life are put to the test.