SAN SEBASTIAN -- This little city (smaller than my hometown of Lancaster, Pennsylvania) has made itself an essential stop on the annual film circuit. It's probably the fourth largest film festival in the world. It's strong enough to attract A-listers like Woody Allen. It gives Latin American directors a platform to reach a wide audience. The elegant Basque surroundings help--like the shell-shaped bay that lies less than two minutes from my hotel and the elegant meals from many Michelin chefs.
The golden bay lends its name to the main film prize (Concha de Oro, or Golden Shell). You won't see paparazzi in your face on the streets. Nor will you find them in the retrospective of Anthony Mann or in showings by non-conformist film makers.
Woody Allen is here to premiere "Melinda and Melinda", as well as a retrospective. He took a a special award here last week. Other award winners include Annette Bening, Jeff Bridges, and Sean Penn.
Published on autopilot from Typead's embargo servers. Image of Peine del Viento by Junio.
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