Welcome to the eighth annual Napa Valley Film Festival (November 7 – 11), just 47 miles north of San Francisco. Less than a month after the devastating fires which swept across wine country, the Festival moves forward to create a memorable week of the best in cinematic storytelling.
Of particular interest to San Franciscans is a delightful documentary entitled Perfect Note, Perfect Taste, about the legendary Café Jacqueline in North Beach. At age 82, Chef Jacqueline Margulis still prepares each soufflé. Having dined there on more than one occasion, I was able to watch this short film with anticipatory pleasure.
A highlight of the narrative feature films is Ask for Jane, based on real events in the Chicago area between 1969 and 1973. Given the recent controversy over the selection of a Supreme Court justice, this film about women’s rights could not be more timely.
Also featured in the Napa Valley Film Festival is Matthew Heineman’s A Private War about celebrated war correspondent Marie Colvin (1956-2012). Rosamund Pike stars in an Oscar-worthy performance.
Opening the Festival is another standout film, Green Book, based on the experiences of music virtuoso Don Shirley when he left Manhattan to tour in the Deep South in the 20th century. During that period in American history, people of color relied on the Green Book to guide them to the few establishments that were safe for travelers. Viggo Mortensen and Mahershala Ali star. Screenwriters Nick Vallelonga and Brian Currie will participate in a Q&A after the screening.
Inspired storytelling can not only change your day, but can truly change the world.
Screening venues are located in Calistoga, St. Helena, Yountville and Napa. Those in attendance will enjoy culinary demonstrations, panel discussions, a festival gala, awards ceremonies and celebrity tributes in additional to the films.
Co-founders Marc Lhormer and Brenda Lhormer would like us to remember:
“It’s the movies we turn to: for distraction from our troubles,
for a good laugh (or a good cry), and for opportunities
to feel empowered to make a difference.
…Inspired storytelling can not only change your day,
but can truly change the world.”
NVFF runs November 7 – 11, 2018 in venues across the Napa Valley.