Adam Sandler to Receive the Maltin Modern Master Award at SBIFF 2026

The Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) has announced that Adam Sandler will receive the Maltin Modern Master Award on February 5, 2026, at the 41st annual festival. The evening will include an on-stage conversation with legendary film critic Leonard Maltin, celebrating Sandler’s remarkable career—from comedy icon to acclaimed dramatic actor.

Angelina Jolie Honored at SBIFF 2025 with Maltin Modern Master Award

The 40th annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) delivered one of its most anticipated evenings on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, as Angelina Jolie received the prestigious Maltin Modern Master Award before a sold-out crowd of 2,000 at the Arlington Theatre.

40th Santa Barbara International Film Festival runs Tuesday, February 4th – Saturday February 15th, 2025. Films and Schedule to be announced Tuesday, January 14th, 2025.

Mavis Staples and The War and Treaty

“If we had the ability to assess who is the most beloved figure in music – not in overall numbers, but sheer adoration, per capita and per peer – it likely wouldn’t be Taylor or Beyoncé but Mavis Staples, who has been taking us there since the late ’60s.” Variety

Education Technology Pioneer - Salman Khan

“Salman Khan challenges us to reimagine the future of education in an AI-driven era... Not only insightful but also inspiring, demonstrating the enormous potential of technology to empower both learners and educators.” – Arne Duncan, former U.S. Secretary of Education

Snarky Puppy

Jazz, Funk and More from North Texas

American Riviera Award honoring Mark Ruffalo

A tribute in honor or Mark Ruffalo who will be presented with the SBIFF American Riviera Award.

Celebrating Film's Creatives at SBIFF's Variety Artisans Award

Step into the world of cinematic artistry at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival's Variety Artisans Award. Witness the celebration of extraordinary talent on February 11, 2024, as we honor the creative forces behind this year’s most innovative and captivating films.

Celebrating Film's Brightest Stars at SBIFF's Virtuosos Award

Join EventVault in celebrating a night of cinematic excellence at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival’s Virtuosos Award. Witness the recognition of exceptional talents like Danielle Brooks and America Ferrera on February 10, 2024, at the Arlington Theater.

Robert Downey Jr. Receives Maltin Modern Master Award at SBIFF

Experience the magic of the 39th Santa Barbara International Film Festival where Robert Downey Jr. received the prestigious Maltin Modern Master Award. Revel in the highlights of the night, featuring personal anecdotes from Downey and accolades from industry luminaries, showcasing the impact of a true master of the screen.

Maltin Modern Master Award honoring Robert Downey Jr.

A tribute in honor or Robert Downey Jr. who will be presented with the SBIFF Maltin Modern Master Award for his storied career in film.

SBIFF Performer of the Year Award honoring Bradley Cooper

Bradley Cooper is celebrated with the Outstanding Performer of the Year Award at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. The historic Arlington Theatre was the setting for a delightful surprise, with Brad Pitt and Carey Mulligan stepping on stage to pay tribute to Cooper's remarkable career. Pete Hammond of Deadline, a seasoned ally of SBIFF, expertly guided the audience through Cooper's versatile journey in the film industry, from his compelling acting roles to his acclaimed skills as a writer and director. Experience the magic of this premier tribute, marking the beginning of the festival's 39th edition.

Adam Grant

In this paradigm-shifting conversation, organizational psychologist and Penn Wharton School of Business professor Adam Grant offers a new framework for raising aspirations and exceeding expectations.

Elizabeth Gilbert

With her signature mix of wit, wisdom and radical candor, Elizabeth Gilbert reflects on love, loss and the healing power of storytelling through the lens of her forthcoming memoir All the Way to the River.

Fareed Zakaria

A five-time New York Times bestselling author and the long-running host of GPS on CNN, Fareed Zakaria offers a timely and far-reaching look at the forces shaping the future across politics, the economy and culture.

Boz Scaggs

A night of quintessential soul with one of music’s most enduring voices, Boz Scaggs’ Rhythm Review 2025 transports you straight to a roadhouse in roots-music heaven.

Lila Downs

Blending traditional Mexican and Mesoamerican music with folk, jazz, blues and originals, Grammy and Latin Grammy Award-winning icon Lila Downs brings her powerful voice and magnetic stage presence to a vibrant celebration of Día de Muertos.