San Pedro, California – The 23rd annual L.A. Harbor International Film Festival is set to unfold this weekend, from Thursday, March 5th, to Sunday, March 8th, bringing a diverse program of cinematic experiences to the Southern California port town. While the historic Warner Grand Theatre remains temporarily closed for renovations, the festival will utilize four venues across San Pedro to showcase its offerings, continuing a longstanding tradition of celebrating film and community.
Founded in 2003 by Stephanie Mardesich and Jack Baric, the LA Harbor International Film Festival has become a cornerstone of the San Pedro cultural landscape. Mardesich, whose family roots in the area stretch back to her Croatian immigrant grandfather Joseph M. Mardesich, Sr., a founding member of the Dalmatian American Club, has dedicated herself to weaving local history and nostalgia into the festival’s programming. Her commitment to the community is evident in the festival’s continued growth and its focus on fostering connections between the region and the wider world of cinema. The festival’s mission, as stated by Mardesich, is “To create a cinematic bridge between the people of the region and the people of the world.”
A Diverse Program Across San Pedro
The festival kicks off on Thursday with its signature “Read the Book, Notice the Movie” program, aimed at engaging young audiences. This year’s selection is the classic 1960 Disney adaptation of “Swiss Family Robinson,” which will be screened at the John Olguin Auditorium at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium for local students. Prior to the screening, books are distributed to schools, encouraging literacy and a deeper engagement with the source material. This program exemplifies the festival’s commitment to education and fostering a love of storytelling.
Friday, March 6th, marks the official opening night for the public, with a reception and presentations from the “Stories of Los Angeles Harbor Area For Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” oral history program. The event will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Dalmatian American Club, located at 1639 S. Palos Verdes Street. This program, produced by Mardesich and Baric, aims to preserve and celebrate the rich history of the Los Angeles Harbor area through personal narratives and archival materials.
Saturday’s program takes a unique turn with the “Hollywood Nostalgia Tribute Program” presented aboard the historic Battleship Iowa, docked at 250 S. Harbor Blvd. In the Port of Los Angeles. Boarding and ship tours will begin at 3:00 PM, with the screening commencing at 4:00 PM. The featured film is “Skirts Ahoy” (MGM, 1952), a musical comedy starring Esther Williams, celebrating the women who served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Attendees can enjoy concessions from Vicky’s Doghouse Cafe, offering a film-friendly menu of gourmet hot dogs, soda, wine, beer, popcorn, and candy. Attendance is limited to 200 and reservations are requested through Eventbrite, with donations of non-perishable food items and new clothing encouraged to benefit local organizations including the YWCA Harbor Area, Toberman Neighborhood Center, and Harbor Interfaith Services.
“DocSunday” and International Perspectives
The festival culminates on Sunday, March 8th, with “DocSunday,” a dedicated day for documentary films. Beginning at 2:00 PM at the YWCA Harbor Area’s Julia Morgan Auditorium (437 W. Ninth St.), the program will feature two compelling documentaries: “Cirilo, An Untold Legacy” and “The Eyes of Ghana.” “Cirilo, An Untold Legacy” tells the story of Cirilo McSween, a Panamanian native who became a prominent civil rights leader in the United States during the 1960s. “The Eyes of Ghana,” which Mardesich experienced as a press delegate at the 69th BFI London Film Festival in October 2015, offers a historical perspective on Ghana’s independence from European colonialism, marking the first African nation to achieve emancipation.
Mardesich emphasized the thematic resonance of these films, stating, “Both films reflect concerns for social integrity, equity and civil rights, evoking a mood of humanity.” This selection underscores the festival’s commitment to showcasing films that address important social issues and promote cross-cultural understanding.
A Legacy of Community and Cinematic Celebration
The LA Harbor International Film Festival’s journey began in 2003, initially facing skepticism about its viability. As Councilwoman Janice Hahn noted in a 2008 interview with the Daily Breeze, Mardesich persevered despite initial doubts, securing sponsorships and building a dedicated following. The festival’s continued success is a testament to Mardesich’s vision and her deep connection to the San Pedro community. The festival’s enduring presence is now a fixture on the local calendar, demonstrating its importance to the cultural life of the region.
Stephanie Mardesich’s background, including her education at USC’s film school, has been instrumental in shaping the festival’s identity. Her ability to blend a passion for film with a commitment to local history and community engagement has created a unique and valuable cultural event. The festival’s ongoing partnership with local businesses and organizations further strengthens its ties to the San Pedro area.
The festival’s evolution over the years has included various programs, such as the “Read the Book, See the Movie” series, which provides a niche appeal and exclusivity, as Mardesich explained in a 2008 interview. This approach allows the festival to curate a distinctive program that sets it apart from larger, more competitive film festivals.
Looking Ahead
Despite the temporary closure of the Warner Grand Theatre for renovations, the LA Harbor International Film Festival continues to adapt and thrive, utilizing multiple venues to ensure a seamless experience for attendees. The festival’s organizers are actively planning for future events, with a long-term commitment to remaining a vital part of the San Pedro community. The festival’s website, www.laharborfilmfest.com, provides detailed information on the schedule, tickets, and other event details.
The 23rd annual L.A. Harbor International Film Festival promises a weekend of cinematic exploration, community engagement, and a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the Los Angeles Harbor area. The festival’s dedication to showcasing diverse films and fostering a sense of connection between the region and the world makes it a truly unique and valuable event.
The next confirmed event associated with LAHIFF is the “Crows of Dessert” screening scheduled for April 25th at the Alex Theatre in Glendale, as announced in a recent press release. For those interested in learning more about the festival and its upcoming events, please visit the official website at www.laharborfilmfest.com. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences with the festival in the comments below.
Worth a look