Greer's OC

The 19^th Annual Newport Beach Film Festival themed “See Who Made the Cut” kicks off on Thursday, April 26 and runs through May, 3. On Opening Night, The Newport Beach Film Fest presents the West Coast premiere of American Animals screening at 7:30 p.m. at Edwards Big Newport followed by a gala reception at Fashion Island.

American Animals is an extraordinary and thrilling true story of four friends living an ordinary existence who brazenly attempt to execute one of the most audacious art heists in U.S. history.  But not everything is as it seems, and as the daring theft unfolds through each of their perspectives, each of them starts to question whether their attempts to inject excitement and purpose into their lives is simply a misguided attempt at achieving the American Dream.

“We are exceptionally proud to host the West Coast premiere of American animals. This was a phenomenal hit at both Sundance Film Festival and the South By Southwest film festival, and it is sure to be one of the must-see films at the festival,” stated Gregg Schwenk, CEO and Executive Director of the Newport Beach Film Festival.

Following the screening, the Festival will host an Opening Night Gala at Fashion Island presented by Pacific Sales, sponsored in part by Tito’s Vodka, Fashion Island, Karma Automotive and the City of Newport Beach. The gala will feature culinary tastings from 30 of Orange County’s premiere restaurants, hosted bar by Tito’s Vodka with a special performance from Grammy award-winning artist Side Deal and world-renowned Dance Company, Academy of Villains.

Tickets to the Opening Night screening and gala are $225 each and are available at NewportBeachFilmFest.com. Patrons can also purchase tickets to the Opening Night gala only for $175 each. Guests must be at least 21 years old, and cocktail attire is highly recommended.

The Newport Beach Film Festival will showcase more than 350 films from 50 countries and host nightly special events, red carpet galas, compelling conversations with filmmakers, international spotlight events and seminars. The Festival offers filmgoers unique opportunities to mingle with celebrities, filmmakers from around the globe and film industry professionals in a beautiful location.

To purchase tickets and for information about the Newport Beach Film Festival visit NewportBeachFilmFest.com