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Special Presentations
The Special Presentations at the Sonoma International Film Festival bring a dynamic mix of music, heart, and thought-provoking storytelling to the screen.
Image from The Penguin Lessons.
2025 Special Film Presentations
From the highs and lows of creative genius in The Ballad of Wallis Island to the legendary love and activism of One to One: John & Yoko, this lineup showcases unforgettable characters and compelling narratives. Steve Coogan charms in The Penguin Lessons, a heartwarming tale of redemption and an unlikely friendship, while the Love Sex Dreams Trilogy offers a bold and deeply human exploration of love, identity, and desire. Whether it's music, humor, or intimate drama, these films promise to captivate and inspire.
The Ballad of Wallis Island
A wealthy eccentric reunites his favorite folk duo for a dream concert—if they don’t kill each other first. (Dir. James Griffiths/United Kingdom/99min)
One to One: John & Yoko
Kevin Macdonald’s intimate doc explores John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s activism and music. (Dir. Kevin Macdonald/United Kingdom/100min)
The Penguin Lessons
Steve Coogan saves a penguin—and maybe himself—in this heartwarming, true-story dramedy. (Dir. Peter Cattaneo/United Kingdom/110min)
Love Sex Dreams Trilogy
Love (Sex Dreams)
Two married men confront their hidden desires in this sensual and thought-provoking installment of the Love, Sex Dreams Trilogy. (Dir. Dag Johan Haugerud/Norway/119min)
Sex (Dreams Love)
Two married men redefine masculinity and sexuality in this tender, thought-provoking drama in the Love Dreams Sex Trilogy. (Dir. Dag Johan Haugerud/Norway/125min)
Dreams (Love Sex)
North American Premiere. A young writer’s love story shakes generations of women in her family, igniting self-discovery. Winner, Golden Bear, Berlinale. (Dir. Dag Johan Haugerud/Norway/110min)