Greater Palm Springs’ Hollywood connection dazzles during festivals that attract film buffs, stars, and stargazers from around the world.
The season begins Sept. 20-23 with Cinema Diverse: The Palm Springs Gay and Lesbian Film Festival (www.cinemadiverse.ning.com) celebrating the finest in LGBT filmmaking.
From Jan. 3-14, enjoy A-list star-spotting at Palm Springs International Film Festival (www.psfilmfest.org). See celebrities and top films from around the world, panel discussions, and lavish bashes. Catch the red-carpet, black-tie awards gala on Jan. 5.
In late February and early March (dates TBD), the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum hosts the Festival of Native Film and Culture (www.accmuseum.org), screening films and documentaries by, about, and starring Native Americans and other indigenous peoples.
American Documentary Film Festival (www.americandocumentaryfilmfestival.com) returns to the desert April 4-8. Last year’s inaugural festival honored Oscar–winning director Oliver Stone.
May (dates TBD) brings the four-day Arthur Lyons Film Noir Festival (www.arthurlyonsfilmnoir.ning.com), drawing fans of vintage black-and-white B films.
Palm Springs International Shortfest (www.psfilmfest.org) wraps the film fest season in June, with short films from around the world, parties, receptions and awards.
Lovers of wonderfully awful filmmaking (remember Attack of the Giant Leeches?) take heart: World's Worst 100 Films Festival (www.stageshowsinternational.com) is in the works.