UNREEL. Keeping it Real in an Unreal World
Topanga is set once again to welcome luminaries, creators and film aficionados to the canyon as the 18th edition of the Topanga Film Festival transforms our town and takes center stage October 19th to the 22nd. Reflecting on its humble inception, it’s remarkable to remember that this world-class festival began in a quaint backyard in Topanga nearly two decades ago. A testament to the dedication, love, and unyielding efforts of its all-volunteer team of organizers and our supportive Topanga community, TFF has evolved, yet remains firmly rooted in its origins. With this year’s theme—UNREEL. Keeping it Real in an Unreal World, the festival will be inviting filmmakers, storytellers, activists, industry professionals, and technologists to gather, examine and discuss the state of the world through the lens of cinema.
In times of dissonance, division and deception we often look to artists and storytellers to help us navigate and make sense of conflicting narratives, social inequities, and shifting truths. Through an exciting curation of films, discussions, and workshops, TFF intends to explore the ever increasingly blurred line between fiction and reality, and the role of the filmmaker in a world of both deep uncertainty and limitless possibilities brought on by technology and evolving consciousness.
Coming off the heels of a successful fundraising event this past Saturday in the canyon, that included several live music acts, regenerative foods and elixirs, a guided group meditation facilitated through cutting-edge technology, and an inspiring address by our state senator Ben Allen on the importance of the arts for both the canyon and the world beyond, attendees were left with a sense of excitement and heightened anticipation for the main event to come in October.
The great turnout to the fundraiser party not only reminded Topangans what it takes to put on an important art-focused community happening but has energized the spirit that the festival stands for—a shared passion for a better world through the transformative power of story.
For those who’ve been part of this voyage since its inception and for those just embarking—TFF invites you to the 18th edition of the Topanga Film Festival. Even with its successful kickoff, the fundraising and preparations for this iconic event that “keeps Topanga Topanga” has just begun. ~Urs Baur
There are many ways one can be involved, donate and contribute. Please join us!
Tickets & volunteer: topangafilminstitute.org
Tax-deductible donations: Mightycause.org/topangafilmfestival
Enter your films (deadline September 1st): filmfreeway.com/topangafilmfestival
IG: @official_topangafilmfestival
