SBIFF - Colin Firth - Outstanding Performance

If you were looking to see an A-List Hollywood megastar with a sophisticated British flair, then the red carpet at the Arlington Theater was the place to be this night.  On hand was Colin Firth, as he was this years recipient of the prestigious Outstanding Performance Award.  His popularity was confirmed by the overwhelming loud cheers from the crowd as he made his way out of his motorcade and toward his adoring fans lined up along State St.

It's been quite some time that an actor has received such an ovation from the Santa Barbara attendees.  It certainly is a testament to a man that has had such a stellar career dating back to 1984.

The moderator this evening was none other than Roger Durling himself, the Executive Director of the film festival.  Although, somewhat out of his element moderating, Roger pulled it off with his endearing personality, his sheer love of his job, and his undeniable respect of the man he was interviewing.

Roger took the audience on Firth's journey beginning in 1984 when he played Tommy Judd in Another Country right up to the present with his Oscar nominated performance as George in "A Single Man."

The audience was shown film clips from "Did You Know Your Father," "The She Found Me," "Love Actually," "Bridget Jones Diary,"  and "A Single Man" to name just a few.  

Colin stated that he became interested in acting at the age of 14 when he had a crush on his drama teacher.  He had doubts about pursuing the career, however, as he observed from his peers that no one seemed happy that he was acting with. Obviously, he overcame his doubts, and became one of the worlds most prolific actors.

On hand to present the award to Colin was Nick Hornby, a long time friend and writer of "The Education" and "Fever Pitch"

The accolades were everywhere and well deserved for Colin Firth.