Scarlett Johansson along with Brendan Fraser, Mark Hamill, Tessa Thompson, Diane Lane, Noah Schnapp, and many other well-known actors attended the 2025 Newport Beach Film Festival (NBFF) held over the weekend. The festival took place in Newport Beach, California, from October 16 to October 23, bringing together stars and filmmakers from across the globe.
The event also featured Variety’s 10 Actors to Watch ceremony, held on Sunday, October 19, at The Balboa Bay Resort. This occasion celebrated emerging talent and honored established performers, including Brendan Fraser, Diane Lane, and Mark Hamill, who received the Icon Award for their outstanding contributions.
Honoring Iconic and Rising Talent at the Festival
The Newport Film Festival screened 100 films showcasing stories from around the world, creating a platform for both new and seasoned talent. Variety’s list of actors to watch was fully represented at the event, with rising stars like Milly Alcock from Supergirl, Miles Caton from Sinners, Mari Yamamoto of Rental Family, singer Ella Anderson, Edmund Donovan of Late Fame, and Chase Infiniti appearing alongside veteran stars.
This blend of established icons and emerging artists highlights the festival’s commitment to celebrating diverse talent within the film industry.
Notable Celebrities Attending This Year’s Festival
Among the notable attendees were Scarlett Johansson, Mark Hamill with Marilou York, Brendan Fraser, Tessa Thompson, Diane Lane, and Noah Schnapp. Other celebrities included Jenny Slate, Kerry Condon, Lee Byung-hun, Mimi Rogers, Jerry Bruckheimer, Betsy Brandt, Thomas Sadoski, Erin Kellyman, Jay Lycurgo, and Guillaume Marbeck, creating a vibrant gathering of film professionals and stars.
The Festival’s Growing Cultural Influence
The 2025 Newport Film Festival continues to establish itself as a significant event in the cinematic calendar, offering a unique opportunity for audiences and creators to connect. With a mix of award-winning actors, promising newcomers, and a wide range of films, the festival fosters a supportive environment for storytelling and creativity in Newport Beach and beyond.
