So you thought the BIFF opening reception at the Arsenal was glam. Well tonight’s awards gala at the USCB performing arts center should top that. Not all the directors could make it to the opening, but almost all of them are coming to find out if they win. Here’s a sneak peek at who you might meet if you show up at 7pm for the cocktail hour before the show:

Straight from LA – the crew from Lt. Dan Band documentary will be out in force. Disney producer Jonathan Flora’s getting the Santini Patriot Spirit Award – from none other than Tom Berenger.

The New York contingent – you’ve got Ned Farr, whose feature “A Marine Story” kept the audience rapt until eleven last night. Then he still had the energy to celebrate with his family (a Beaufort connection) and new fans. Maria Cuomo Cole (yes that Cuomo) is rumored to be flying in to join director Kevin Breslin. She’s the producer part of the team that made “Living for 32” happen.

The Midwest’s representing too. One of the tightest contests may be for Best Short Film this year – and Chicago director Seth Boggess and producer Natasha Warloe (Left Alone) had the entire audience wiping away tears for their premiere. Not surprising, when you find out that they plucked actors straight out of Steppenwolf.  Benjamin Busch’s short, “Bright,” had an equally star-studded cast. He’s from Michigan, these days, but his actors are all over HBO series like “The Wire.” Spot who you recognize when the clip reel rolls before each trophy gets awarded.  You know, the part before the drum roll and “envelope please.”

Probably the biggest celebs coming tonight are home-grown. Who’d have thought a documentary on the history of the Sea Islands would sell out? Well, team Hudson/McDowell/DePratter packed the house for “Sea Island Secrets.” So tonight’s award ceremony is the last chance to hobnob with South Carolina’s own Indiana Jones (Professor Chester DePratter that is.)  

Beaufort’s own Michael Givens sold out two screenings last night for the debut of “Angel Camouflaged.” If you missed all the rock-n-roll props, black leather and sassy heels last night – I’m guessing his entourage will be back in full force tonight. Don’t miss the signature event of the 5^th annual BIFF!