The La Jolla International Fashion Film Festival returned on July 29-30 to The Lot La Jolla on Fay Avenue. This was the 13th year for this two-day event. It began with an opening night reception and art installations. Fred Sweet, the founder of this sold-out event, was there to greet the crowd. They even had live streaming on seven different platforms.
Everyone arriving walked the Red Carpet that was lined with paparazzi shooting photos of all the filmmakers and award presenters. Seating this year was held in an outdoor setting with a new Jumbo Screen where the International Fashion Film awards and presentations were given.
This year, Manuel Albarran was awarded Best Costume Design for “Two or The Weight of Oneself,” and the unique metal work by DShock for this film won Best Jewelry. LJFFF veteran art director and makeup artist Einat Dan was awarded Best Makeup on two films – “Metamorphosis,” and “Royal Touch.” Alessio Benneti from the “Royal Touch” received an award for Best Accessories.
This year, LJFFF was honored to have supermodel Pat Cleveland attend the event for the premiere of “The Girl from 7th Avenue.” This film was an illustrated story of her modeling career. The film, created by Antonio Contreras, was named Best Documentary and Best Animation.
Roxana Chapela was awarded Best Message for “Upcyclers.” They believe that a sustainable circular economy is a solution. Director Ryan Renshaw arrived from Australia with his film “Sapient,” which was awarded Best Visual Effects. Hector Torres and Hanikay Topete were awarded Best Art Direction for “Surrender.”
Marco Celotti was awarded Best Supporting Role Fashion Brand for “Spazio Pritelli X Nike Airmax.” Duane March was awarded Best Narration for the “Key to Heaven.” House of Aama won Best Fashion for “Salt Water,” and Mariel Gomsrud won Best Creative Concept for “La Petite Mort,” which brings an Ecosexual Movement to the forefront to combat climate change.
Alex Gluch, Conrad Gluch, and Haley Naunton won Best Music for “The Open.” Martin Perry Lutz and Daniel Dacian were awarded Best Cinematography for “Visitor.” Nayara Nunez was awarded Best Fashion Dance for “Wildside.” Yangguang and Zhao Ziyi Gao won Best Sound Design for “Unyielding Sound.”
Steeven Kodjia of French Deal earned Best Cast Ensemble for “The Power is Yours.” Mike Feenix won Best Editing for this film which demonstrates the commitment to freedom for the black community in the USA.
The big win of the evening went to “Time Eternal” taking home four of the International Fashion Film Awards. Benedict Samuel for Best Set Design, Berite Labelle for Best Actress, Daniel M. Lir and Bayou Bennet for Best Director, and Zef Cota, Berite Labelle, Daniel M. Lir, and Bayou Bennet for the Best Picture. The message of the film is that there are unlimited possibilities for everyone. For more information, visit ljfff.com.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Saturday, Aug.13 – St. Madeleine Sophie presents the 44th Haute With Heart Fashion Show called Diamonds are Girl’s Best Friends at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront. Visit Hautewithheart.org.
Sunday, Aug. 28 – The Salah M. Hassanein Memorial “Day at the Races” to benefit Children’s Lifeline International. The honorary chair is Zandra Rhodes. For tickets: https://bit.ly/3OPSV1w.
Sunday, Aug. 21 – Bridal Bazaar with fashion shows presented by Gretchen Productions at the San Diego Convention Center. Two shows to be presented during the day. For more info, 760-334-5500.
April 8-Oct. 2 – “Fold, Twist, Tie” – This is a Paper Bag Hat exhibit by moses at the Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturdays-Wednesdays and 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Thursdays-Fridays.
Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned Couture Milliner based in the San Diego area. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher, and blogger at www.DianaCavagnaro.com.
