Maltin Modern Master Award Tickets

Every year, the Santa Barbara International Film Festival presents the Maltin Modern Master Award to an individual who has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. First awarded in 1995, the award is named after renowned film critic and historian Leonard Maltin, who has been a longtime supporter of the festival. In recent years, the award has expanded beyond film to include theater as well.

The Maltin Modern Master Award recognizes not only longevity and excellence in the recipient's career but also their impact on the industry and culture as a whole. Past recipients have included filmmakers like Clint Eastwood, Guillermo del Toro, and Quentin Tarantino, as well as actors such as Denzel Washington, Cate Blanchett, and Will Smith.

In 2020, for the first time, the award was presented to a theater artist: Kristen Wiig. The actress and comedian, known for her work on Saturday Night Live and in films like Bridesmaids and Ghostbusters, was honored for her contributions to both comedy and drama on stage, including her performance in the play "Wet Hot American Summer: The Musical."

Wiig's acceptance of the Maltin Modern Master Award highlights the importance of recognizing theater artists alongside their film counterparts. Theater has long been a critical part of the entertainment industry, with a rich history dating back centuries. Many actors and performers began their careers in theater, honing their craft and developing their skills before transitioning to film and television.

However, theater often gets overlooked in awards season and in popular culture more broadly. While many film festivals and awards shows recognize the best in cinema, the same attention is not always given to the best in theater. By expanding the Maltin Modern Master Award to include theater artists like Kristen Wiig, the Santa Barbara International Film Festival is helping to shine a spotlight on this important and impactful art form.

Overall, the Maltin Modern Master Award is an important recognition of excellence and achievement in the entertainment industry, honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to the world of film and theater. As the award continues to expand to include even more artists from diverse backgrounds and fields, it will only become a more important and iconic part of the global arts community.