San Francisco International Film Festival Opens with Star Power and Local Pride The 69th edition of the San Francisco International Film Festival (SFFILM) kicked off on Friday night at the newly renovated Castro Theatre, drawing global stars and local pride as two high-profile premieres highlighted the city’s cultural significance. Olivia Wilde and Greta Lee, two acclaimed actors, unveiled their latest films, The Invite and Late Fame, respectively, with both projects deeply rooted in San Francisco’s unique character. The opening night event underscored the city’s role as a creative hub and a backdrop for storytelling, as well as the enduring appeal of in-person cinema. Wilde’s The Invite, a relationship-driven comedy filmed in San Francisco, premiered at the Castro Theatre, a venue she described as “exquisite” and historically significant. The film, which stars Penelope Cruz, Edward Norton, and Seth Rogen, follows two San Francisco couples whose casual dinner gathering spirals into unexpected drama. Wilde, who also directs and stars in the film, emphasized the city’s integral role in the story. “The film was written to be about San Franciscans,” she said, noting that her mother is from the city and that she has lived there her entire life. “I loved that the characters were from here. It felt like a natural fit.” The film was shot in locations such as North Beach and the Mission District, with the cast spending two days filming in the city. Wilde expressed deep emotion about screening the film at the Castro, which she called “a proper film projector” that evokes the cinematic experience of a century ago. Meanwhile, Greta Lee’s Late Fame, a drama co-starring Willem Dafoe, premiered to a packed audience at the same venue.#olivia_wilde #san_francisco_international_film_festival #castro_theatre #greta_lee #anne_lai
