This year, celebrate Filmfest’s 31st birthday and discover the latest and greatest in independent film September 30 – October 4, 2009. With its roster of independent films from all over the world, Filmfest offers an unparalleled opportunity to see the latest films from up-and-coming directors and actors who push the boundaries of movie making. 

FILM GUIDE NOW ONLINE!

THIS YEAR'S AWARD RECIPIENTS

With a cinematic career as broad and diverse as this year's line-up, Aspen Filmfest will honor Stanley Tucci with the signature Independent by Nature Award on Saturday, October 3.  Stanley Tucci has appeared in over 50 films and countless television productions, most recently in THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, Steven Spielberg's THE TERMINAL and Sam Mendes' ROAD TO PERDITION. Mr. Tucci is currently co-starring in JULIE & JULIA opposite Meryl Streep and directed by Nora Ephron. His next film is BLIND DATE, opposite Patricia Clarkson, which he co-wrote and directed. Later this year, he will appear opposite Mark Wahlberg and Susan Sarandon in Peter Jackson's highly anticipated adaptation of the acclaimed Alice Sebold novel, THE LOVELY BONES.  The Independent by Nature Award commemorates distinguished artists through on-stage interviews and career retrospectives. Past honorees include Julie Christie, Harrison Ford, Rob Reiner, Sydney Pollack, Bob Rafelson, Michael Douglas, Anjelica Huston, and William H. Macy.

Aspen Film's 30th Anniversary Benefit will follow the Award presentation at the Wheeler.  

Receiving the New Directions Award is a longtime friend of Aspen Film, director Jason Reitman (Juno and Thank You For Smoking) who in his brief, young career has skyrocketed to success. Aspen Filmfest will screen Mr. Reitman's latest film UP IN THE AIR starring George Clooney. Looking to the future, Aspen Filmfest honors Paula Patton with the Artist To Watch Award for her vivid performance in PRECIOUS: BASED ON THE NOVEL 'PUSH' BY SAPPHIRE. Regarding the festival's selection of Ms. Patton, Executive Director Laura Thielen said, "In a film with outstanding performances across the board, we are especially honored to recognize Paula Patton for her beautifully nuanced performance as Ms. Rain, one of the film's pivotal, transforming roles."