Art, Glamour, and Politics

In 1957 movie theater operator and film aficionado Irving Levin got the idea of starting an international film festival in our cosmopolitan town. In spite of meager funding and a cold shoulder from Hollywood, the festival inspired tumultuous citywide debate and became a smashing success. In its 60th anniversary year, film festival historian Miguel Pendás tells the dramatic story of how the longest-running film festival in the Americas came into being, using photos and film clips that made the festival one of the most respected in the world.

Miguel Pendás was the creative director of the SFIFF for nearly 20 years. He is now a freelance writer and editor who contributes to SFIFF and other festivals. He is a member of the board of directors of the San Francisco Historical Society.

SFHS monthly programs are free to members. Non-member fee is $10, which may be applied to membership dues within 30 days; $5 for non-member seniors, students, K–12 teachers, and people with disabilities. Programs are normally scheduled on the second Tuesday of each month, except August and December. Programs are subject to change, so please check for updates at sfhistory.org.

Roosevelt Middle School features on-site parking (enter on Palm Avenue) and public transportation nearby.