Greer's OC

The much-anticipated Newport Beach Film Festival will present “Take Every Wave: The Life of Laird Hamilton” at Opening Night on Thursday, April 20, at 7:30 p.m. at Edwards Big Newport followed by a gala reception at Fashion Island. The 18th annual NBFF will run from April 20 – April 27.

“Take Every Wave: The Life of Laird Hamilton” tells the remarkable story of American icon and innovator, Laird Hamilton, who changed the sport of big wave surfing forever. Hamilton is an athlete who refused to compete professionally, yet dominated and changed his sport.

Following the screening, the Festival will host an Opening Night gala at Fashion Island presented by Fashion Island, LA Times and Tito’s Vodka. 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 “O”: the timeless aquatic production by Cirque Du Soleil only at Bellagio Resort & Casino.

Tickets to the Opening Night screening and gala are $225 each and are available at NewportBeachFilmFest.com. You 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.