Sonoma International Film Festival Announces 2025 Lineup
Rumblings of excitement abound as the Sonoma International Film Festival (SIFF) unveils its impressive lineup for its 28th annual event, scheduled from March 19-23 amidst the picturesque backdrop of California’s wine country. Known for showcasing independent cinema and the culinary arts, this festival promises an extraordinary array of films set to leave audiences captivated.
Leading the charge is the highly anticipated world premiere of Sweet Störy, a charming documentary that chronicles the heartfelt quest of Meg Ray, owner of San Francisco’s beloved patisserie Miette, as she strives to save a quaint café nestled on the remote Swedish island of Rödlöga. This touching narrative sets the tone for what attendees can expect—a blend of emotional storytelling and rich visual experiences.
The festival is set to roll out several world premieres, spotlighting innovative filmmakers. Among these are Ali Eats America by Roush Niaghi and Greg Morris, Cafe Chairel from Fernando Guillermo Barreda Luna, and Fatal Watch helmed by Mark Benjamin and Katie Carpenter. Adding to the excitement, the North American premiere of Dreams (Love, Sex), directed by Dag Johan Haugerud, will also grace the festival after its Golden Bear win at the Berlin Film Festival.
Daisy Edgar-Jones in ‘On Swift Horses’ (Wavelength)
As the heart of the festival, the Centerpiece Film will be the California premiere of On Swift Horses, starring Daisy Edgar-Jones and Jacob Elordi, based on Shannon Pufahi’s critically acclaimed novel. This evocative drama promises to intertwine themes of risk, romance, and self-discovery, offering an unmissable cinematic experience.
Capping off the festival will be the Closing Night Film, The Wedding Banquet, a fresh take on Ang Lee’s classic. Directed by Andrew Ahn and featuring a powerful cast including Bowen Yang, Lily Gladstone, Kelly Marie Tran, and Joan Chen, this reimagining aims to deliver the same chaotic yet heartfelt essence of the original while exploring contemporary issues.
Joan Chen attends the 97th Annual Oscars on March 2, 2025 (Mike Coppola/Getty Images)
Adding a special touch, Joan Chen will be honored with the festival’s coveted Career Achievement Award, recognizing her remarkable contributions to cinema—spanning iconic roles in films such as The Last Emperor, Lust, Caution, and Twin Peaks.
This year’s festival isn’t just a feast for the eyes. Artistic Director Carl Spence emphasized the importance of culinary integration, stating, “The Sonoma International Film Festival isn’t just an event—it’s a destination where world-class cinema, fine wine, and gourmet food create an unforgettable cultural experience.” With that in mind, SIFF has organized a series of culinary films and events, including a spotlight on Italian cuisine and an intimate dinner paying tribute to culinary legend Marcella Hazan.
Festival Highlights:
- Opening Night Film: Sweet Störy – Captivating documentary following Meg Ray’s journey on a remote Swedish island.
- Centerpiece Film: On Swift Horses – California premiere of this drama intertwining risk, romance, and self-discovery.
- Closing Night Film: The Wedding Banquet – A contemporary twist on Ang Lee’s 1993 classic.
- Special Presentations: Featuring The Ballad of Wallis Island, One to One: John & Yoko, and Dag Johan Haugerud’s Love Sex Dreams Trilogy.
- Tribute to Joan Chen: Award presented during the Closing Night of The Wedding Banquet.
Fans can also expect 20th-anniversary screenings of Gregg Araki’s Mysterious Skin and a diverse range of audience-favorite films, winners from prestigious festivals like Tribeca and Sundance, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
With a mix of powerful storytelling, star-studded appearances, and exquisite dining, this year’s SIFF is poised to set new standards for independent film festivals, continuing to weave together the threads of cinema and culinary excellence. For the latest updates and further details, the festival’s official website can be found here.