oceanside international film festival
Celebrating 15 Years of Independent Film by the Sea
Every February, the Oceanside International Film Festival (OIFF) transforms this laid-back surf town into a cinematic hub where Hollywood creatives, indie filmmakers, and local dreamers come together to celebrate storytelling. We caught up with the festival team—Lou Niles (Executive Director), Sterling Anno (Co-Director of Programming), and Carly Starr Brullo Niles (Artistic Director & Co-Director of Programming)—to talk film, community, and what makes OIFF a true reflection of Oceanside’s creative soul.
Q: Tell us a bit about yourselves. How did each of you get involved with OIFF?
Lou: I’ve been Executive Director since 2018, curating the festival through my background in music, film, and surf culture. Outside OIFF, I co-host 91X Loudspeaker, a legendary local music show that’s been championing the San Diego scene for over 37 years.
Sterling: I’ve worked in the film festival world for 16 years, from San Diego Underground to Horrible Imaginings. I joined OIFF back in 2011 and have watched it evolve into something truly special for the community.
Carly: I’ve spent three decades in Hollywood as a producer, director, and writer. As OIFF’s Artistic Director and Executive Director of KOCT Television, I love bringing my industry connections and passion for storytelling home to Oceanside.
Q: How has the festival evolved over the years?
The festival began 15 years ago under the Oceanside Cultural Arts Foundation. Our team took the reins in 2017 and later formed a dedicated nonprofit to grow OIFF into an internationally recognized destination for filmmakers and film lovers. What started as a grassroots event has evolved into a world-class festival, attracting award-winning films, rising directors, and even Hollywood icons—many of whose works have gone on to earn critical and industry acclaim.
Q: The surf and skate block is a fan favorite. Any standout moments?
There have been so many! Our on-stage talk with surf filmmaker Taylor Steele was unforgettable, The Tony Alva Story celebrated a hometown legend, and Big Wave Guardians—written by Oceanside Surf Museum president Jim Kempton—was a true community favorite bringing together surfers and lifeguards. In a city built on surf culture, the surf film block always brings fun energy.
Q: You have deep roots in the music world. How does that show up in the festival?
Music and film are inseparable for us. We’ve hosted composer Jason Hill (Mindhunter) who gave us an inside look at his process for creating iconic film and TV scores, screened the Jason Mraz–produced The Opener, and featured documentaries like I Am Alright that explores mental wellbeing in the music businesses.
Q: How does OIFF reflect Oceanside’s unique arts culture?
Oceanside’s creativity runs deep—from the beaches to the backstreets. OIFF brings those voices together, blending global stories with homegrown talent. With local art installations, afterparties downtown, and surf culture front and center, the festival feels like an authentic extension of the city itself.
Q: Any partnerships that have been especially meaningful?
When Animal Kingdom was filming in Oceanside, Warner Bros. and TNT gave us exclusive access to debut the latest episodes at the festival. Over the years, the cast and crew became an annual highlight, sharing behind-the-scenes insights and participating in special panels for the show’s passionate fanbase.
Q: What sets OIFF apart from other regional film festivals?
We bring a touch of Hollywood sparkle to the coast! Our 20-year reunions for Blue Crush—with Kate Bosworth, Sanoe Lake, and a virtual cameo from Michelle Rodriguez—and Stephen King’s Thinner at the Star Theatre were unforgettable. We love creating those moments where fans can connect with film legends in a relaxed, beachside setting.
Q: What can audiences look forward to this year?
Four action-packed days of independent film from around the world, live Q&As, special opening and closing nights, an awards ceremony, and afterparties that extend the fun. It’s equal parts culture, creativity, and coastal cool.
Q: Why plan a visit around OIFF?
Because Oceanside’s creative energy is contagious. Beyond the festival, visitors can explore vibrant galleries, sip craft cocktails, dine farm-to-table, and stroll the beach at sunset—all within one of California’s 14 designated cultural districts. Once you experience OIFF, you’ll understand why so many people come for the films and stay for the vibe.
