Santa Barbara’s 23rd International Film Festival kicked off in first class fashion on Thursday, January 28, 2008.

Despite hours of heavy rain and random blackouts in the immediate area, nothing could dampen the spirits of anyone in attendance.

The night began with the arrival of celebrities and the traditional walk down the red carpet. Cameras were clicking and fans were waving as all the attendees were making their way into Santa Barbara’s beautiful Arlington theatre.
  Inside, Roger Durling, the film festivals executive director and driving force dedicated this years festival to Heath Ledger who passed away 2 days earlier. Roger gave an emotional and well deserved tribute to the actor who was honored by this festival in 2006.

The opening night movie was Definitely Maybe. Ryan Reynolds played the role of Will Hayes, a newly divorcing father with Abigail Breslin starring as his 10 year old daughter, Maya. As all kids eventually do, Maya reaches the point in her life when she wants to know everything about how her parents met and fell in love. The romantic comedy plays itself out as Will takes Maya down the romantic ups and downs of his past. Both actors were on hand for the screening. Two very enthusiastic thumbs up.

The after party took place in the entrances of the Arlington theater. Hundreds of people mingled up and down the walkways sipping wine and Vodka as well as appetizers from local merchants.

The Santa Barbara International Film Festival is always a special 10 days of the year for all who attend. There were definitely no maybes on this night.