Reel deal in O.C.

The Newport Beach Film Festival allows independent filmmakers to get the Hollywood-style red carpet premieres their work deserves.

That, says festival CEO and co-founder Gregg Schwenk, is precisely what a film festival is for.

“It should bring to a community the opportunity to see film they wouldn’t get to see otherwise,” Schwenk said.

Steve and Kim Moriyama were in line two hours early to ensure spots at the front of the line for Thursday’s premiere of “Sherman’s Way.”

The Moriyamas have attended the opening night film five years running, they say, because the festival offers them a unique experience to see independent films that may never make it to the mainstream market.

“I’m always looking for new, more eclectic films you can’t find anywhere else,” Steve Moriyama said.

And the film industry is beginning to notice. The festival has gained some fame with premieres of major box-office successes such as “The Illusionist” and “Waitress,” not to mention an Academy Award Best Picture in “Crash.”

Festival Founding Sponsor Leigh Steinberg said Daily Variety’s recognition of the stature of the festival will be critical in building a bridge between Newport Beach and Hollywood studios.

Hollywood legend and Daily Variety columnist Army Archard was honored at the festival’s premiere with a proclamation from Mayor Ed Selich declaring April 24 in honor of him.

Insiders like Archard in Newport Beach provides filmmakers the opportunity to be seen by distributors and decision-makers from Hollywood.

“Familiar Strangers” producer Marc Lieberman said it’s a fulfilling experience to have their work seen by an audience, period.

“This is really the way you get your film out to the world,” Lieberman said.

The festival showcases work by filmmakers representing myriad genres, from full-length feature dramas and comedies to shorts and even student films. They also have a documentary series.

Craig Saavedra, writer, director and producer of “Sherman’s Way,” said he was glad he had to drive only an hour from Los Angeles to get to a place as glamorous as Newport Beach.

The proximity to the movie hub of the world is convenient, but Schwenk is quick to point out the Newport Beach Film Festival is truly a product of Orange County.

“It’s not about bringing L.A. down here,” Schwenk said. “It’s about bringing Newport Beach and what they have to offer to the world.”

SUE THOENSEN may be reached at (714) 966-4627 or at [email protected]. JOSH ADEN may be reached at (714) 966-4609 or at [email protected].