Santa Barbara, CA – In an evening filled with cinematic grandeur, the 39th Annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival honored Bradley Cooper with the Outstanding Performer of the Year Award. The event, held on February 8, 2024, at a sold out Arlington Theatre, celebrated Cooper's remarkable contributions to cinema, with a focus on his portrayal of Leonard Bernstein in the Netflix film, "Maestro", a film he also wrote and directed.

If you have never been to a tribute at the festival, you are missing out. The team at SBIFF lead by Roger Durling always does such an incredible job putting together their clips for these shows and to relive them with the honoree in person is very special. The star-studded evening featured heartfelt presentations and lively discussions, with celebrities such as Brad Pitt and Carey Mulligan gracing the stage to honor Cooper.

The warmth and camaraderie among the attendees were palpable, underscoring the close-knit nature of the film community.

Cooper, a nine-time Oscar nominee, Grammy winner, and Tony nominee, captivated the audience with his reflections on his journey in the film industry. From his early audition for "Sex and the City" to his directorial debut in "A Star Is Born," Cooper shared intimate anecdotes and insights into his career trajectory.

His humility and gratitude were evident as he expressed his deep appreciation for the art of filmmaking and the impact it has had on his life. "People made movies, I watched them, they changed me, inspired me, kept me alive," Cooper stated, emphasizing the transformative power of cinema.

Carey Mulligan, in her tribute to Cooper, highlighted his "innate gift as an actor," noting the unique and unteachable nature of his talent. Similarly, Brad Pitt lightened the mood with humor, joking about his initial impressions of Cooper and their journey in the industry.

SBIFF’s Executive Director Roger Durling praised Cooper's evolution as an artist, calling him a "renaissance man" and an "outstanding performer." Durling's commendation reflects Cooper's diverse achievements in acting, directing, and producing.

"Maestro," the film for which Cooper is being celebrated, is not just a biopic but a profound exploration of love, art, and the complexities of human relationships. It stands as a testament to Cooper's skill and passion as a filmmaker.

The Outstanding Performer of the Year Award at SBIFF has a legacy of recognizing extraordinary talent in film, with past recipients including Cate Blanchett, Will Smith, and Viola Davis. Bradley Cooper's inclusion in this esteemed group is a fitting acknowledgment of his significant contributions to the world of cinema.

As the festival continues, Cooper's award night will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of this year's event, marking yet another milestone in the rich history of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival.