Watsonville Film Festival and Santa Cruz Culture Celebrated

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In his editor's note, Brad Kava reflects on the current difficult political climate, but emphasizes the importance of staying politically involved and active. He celebrates the 14th year of the Watsonville Film Festival, which is focusing on resisting the negative and inhumane things happening around us. Kava also highlights upcoming music, theater, and food events in the Santa Cruz area, including a tribute to Sly Stone, a jazz performance by guitarist Charlie Hunter, a play about the story behind Good Will Hunting, and a feature on an organic coffee shop.

Why it matters

The Watsonville Film Festival provides an important platform for the Latinx community to reclaim agency, tell their stories, and resist the forces that prefer silence. In a time of political turmoil, the festival and other cultural events in Santa Cruz offer an 'antidote' and opportunity for the community to come together, engage, and find positivity.

The details

The 14th Annual Watsonville Film Festival is expanding to Santa Cruz and Salinas this year, showcasing films that address important social and political issues. Festival organizers have worked to keep the event prospering despite the pandemic's impact on movie-goers. Meanwhile, Santa Cruz is hosting a range of other cultural events, including a tribute to Sly Stone, a jazz performance by Charlie Hunter, a play about the story behind Good Will Hunting, and a feature on an organic coffee shop.

• The Watsonville Film Festival runs from March 12 through March 25, 2026.
• The Santa Cruz Mile race takes place on Sunday.

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.