Film festival organizers postpone event out of ‘abundance of caution’

The 17th annual International Ocean Film Festival, originally scheduled for for March 12 – 15 at San Francisco’s Cowell Theater and other Bay Area venues, has been postponed, organizers said Wednesday.

Ana Blanco, the festival’s executive director, said:

“Out of an abundance of caution, and in light of the still developing situation with COVID-19, we have decided to postpone this year’s festival until all travel restrictions for visiting filmmakers have been lifted, and most importantly, out of respect for our audiences.”

This year’s festival of 56 films selected from 15 countries includes four world premieres, six United States premieres, nine West Coast premieres and six Bay Area premieres.

Blanco said:

“This is easily the most diverse group of films we’ve ever had, with the greatest international participation to date.”

Organizers said they are working to finalize a new series of festival dates, likely for mid- to late summer.

Blanco said:

“With more than 5,000 people expected to attend, we know this is the proper response so that when we do reschedule the festival will be a joyful and relaxing experience, and not pose any additional risks or inconvenience to our audience and partners.”