Video Contests, Film Festivals, and Awards

(Stockton, CA)--The 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival of the San Joaquin Film Society honored new Italian actor Francesco Mistichelli with its inaugural Discovery Award at its Opening Night Gala on May 14, 2009 at the historic Bob Hope Theatre. The award was presented to Mistichelli prior to the Northern California premiere of Denis Rabaglia's "Marcello Marcello," in which Mistichelli played the memorable leading role in his first feature film performance.

The Discovery Award honors a striking new talent that is being introduced on the international scene.

Born in Pescara, Italy, raised in Palermo and currently works in Rome, Mistichelli was selected from a pool of 1,200 auditions for the leading role. He is slated to appear in Federico Moccia's next film "Scusa ma ti voglio sposare."

About the Festival
The 2nd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF2), the flagship annual exhibition of the San Joaquin Film Society taking place May 14 to 23, 2009 - is a glorious world showcase of new and innovative works from emerging talents and seasoned international artists, presented in various venues across the city of Stockton in the heart of California's Central Valley. SJIFF2 will feature: red carpet premieres; new independent American and world films; Animania - a cinematic spotlight on animated cinema; tributes to celebrated and rising filmmakers; an exhilarating collection of the world's top short-length films from new and accomplished directors; educational programs, panels, interactive discussions; family events and programmes; a cultural family day at the museum; guest celebrities, entertainment and industry luminaries, and filmmakers from around the nation and the world; galas and festive parties; and diverse programs for all ages.

Official Festival Website: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09
Films: www.sjiff.org/sjiff09/films.html
Tickets: www.sjiff.org/tickets

About the Society
The San Joaquin Film Society, Inc. (SJFS), home of the San Joaquin International Film Festival, celebrates cinema arts, multi-cultural appreciation, and global outreach through year-round productions of festivals, films, and educational programs. For 2009, in addition to the international film festival in May, SJFS launched an ambitious year of events that includes the 1st San Joaquin Children's Film Festival in January, the 1st California International Documentary Film Festival in the Fall, year-round cinema programs, special events, and educational programs. SJFS is dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and power of filmmaking; and to bringing the world of cinema to the culturally-rich Central Valley audiences.

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

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San Joaquin Film Society, Inc.
Sophoan Sorn
(209) 518-9882
filmsj[at]gmail[dot]com

Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 690341
Stockton, CA 95269-0341
USA