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Big Nights
The Sonoma International Film Festival’s three tentpole films—its Opening, Centerpiece, and Closing selections—promise an unforgettable cinematic journey filled with heart, adventure, and cultural resonance.
Image from On Swift Horses
2025 BIG NIGHTS
The Sonoma International Film Festival’s three tentpole films—its Opening, Centerpiece, and Closing selections—promise an unforgettable cinematic journey filled with heart, adventure, and cultural resonance. Kicking off the festival is Sweet Störy, a charming real-life fairy tale about a patisserie owner’s quest to save a café on a remote Swedish island. The festival’s Centerpiece, On Swift Horses, delves into the complexities of love and self-discovery in a sweeping 1950s period drama. Finally, the Closing Night Film, The Wedding Banquet, offers a vibrant, contemporary reimagining of Ang Lee’s beloved classic, paired with a tribute to the legendary Joan Chen. Together, these films showcase the festival’s commitment to storytelling that inspires, challenges, and delights audiences.
Sweet Störy - Opening Night Film
Wednesday | 6:30 PM | Sebastiani
Wednesday | 7:00 PM | Vets#1
In this real-life fairy tale, Meg Ray, owner of the beloved Bay Area patisserie Miette, embarks on a five-year odyssey to help save a magical café on the remote Swedish island of Rödlöga. An irresistibly delicious story of community, self-discovery, renewal, and the power of baked goods. World Premiere. (Dir. Sarah Justine Kerruish, Matt Maude/United Kingdom/75min) Repeat Screening: Saturday | 3:00 PM | Andrews.
On Swift Horses - Centerpiece Film
Saturday | 4:00 PM | Vets#1
In the 1950s, newlywed Muriel (Daisy Edgar-Jones) and her brother-in-law Julius (Jacob Elordi) embark on parallel journeys of romance, risk, and self-discovery. This intoxicating period drama explores love, secrets, and the consequences of chasing freedom and desire. (Dir. Daniel Minahan/USA/117min)
The Wedding Banquet - Closing Night Film & Tribute to Joan Chen
Sunday | 5:00 PM | Sebastiani
The guest list has changed, but the drama remains! This fresh, modern reimagining of Ang Lee’s 1993 classic follows a group of friends who need to get married for convenience—until family arrives, and the plan spirals into extravagant, chaotic mayhem. Starring Bowen Yang, Lily Gladstone, Kelly Marie Tran, Joan Chen, and Youn Yuh-jung. (Dir. Andrew Ahn/USA/103min)