Vanessa McMahon

Sonoma International Film Festival (SIFF) has hired industry leader David Miller to assume the role of Executive Director for the internationally acclaimed film festival, with current Executive Director Kevin W. McNeely to become SIFF Artistic Director.

Miller is an international award-winning film producer with experience in distribution, international sales, promotions and Public Relations. As President of A71 Productions/ A71 Entertainment, he has produced more than 20 films and released 50 plus domestic and international films. He spearheaded a joint venture with A71 Entertainment and Vortex Pictures to create V71 Entertainment, a vertically integrated and multifaceted company specializing in distribution and sales.

“We tapped David to not only continue to grow the festival and our programs, but to assure its sustainability in the future,” said McNeely. “As a film industry veteran, and given his unique qualifications, we look forward to his many contributions.”

Miller has the distinction of being the most successful producer in SIFF festival history. Ten of his films have screened over the years at SIFF all winning top Juror or Audience Awards including AMAL, SIDDHARTH, BLACKBIRD and KIVALINA VS. EXXON.

His catalog of films have won or been nominated for prestigious international awards including: over one dozen Canadian Screen nominations/Genie nominations, the Canadian equivalent of the Oscars; six Genie nominations, including Best Motion Picture for AMAL; Best First Feature at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and the Grand Prix at Cannes Ecran for BLACKBIRD; and three Canadian Screen Award nominations and the Best Picture Award at the Beijing Film Festival for SIDDHARTH.

“I am thrilled to take on a new challenge in the entertainment industry,” Miller said. “I have produced, promoted, distributed and sold films over the years. It will be exciting to be on the other end to bring great quality and a stronger international industry component to this wonderful festival. I look forward to continuing the legacy created by Kevin with support from Co-Director Ginny Krieger, the staff and the SIFF Board of Directors.”

In addition to his SIFF responsibilities, Miller will continue to produce and executive produce films. In his role as SIFF Artistic Director, McNeely will continue to guide the strategic and creative vision for the non-profit.

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Sonoma International Film Festival: The Sonoma International Film Festival is a 501(c)3 corporation dedicated to promoting independent film, supporting filmmakers around the world, and inspiring film lovers. SIFF offers the best in independent cinema including features, documentaries and short films that include a selection of World, North American, US and Northern California premieres.

Blending world-class film, food, wine and fun, SIFF celebrates its 24th edition March 24-28, 2021, which will include both live and virtual experiences. The cultural gem of Sonoma Valley, the five-day event generates over $475,000 for the local Bay Area economy and has hosted renowned filmmakers, industry leaders and noted celebrities such as Francis Ford Coppola, Bruce Willis, Susan Saradon, Mary-Louise Parker, John Lasseter, Karen Allen, Robert Kamen, Michael Keaton, Blythe Danner, Ray Liotta, Danny Glover, Julia Ormond, Rachael Taylor and the beloved Robin Williams, among others.

SIFF’s signature initiative -- the Media Arts Program started at Sonoma Valley High School in 2002 -- introduces students to the process of storytelling and provides the resources for them to create films. SIFF has granted more than $650,000 to the program since its inception.