Three eclectic programs of international award winners, as well as some local student shorts will be showcased at the fourth annual Film Fest Petaluma scheduled for Saturday, May 5, at the downtown Mystic Theatre.  

Programs feature a broad mix of animated and live action short films as well as a blend of comedy and drama.   Shows run at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. with an edgier program at midnight.  Each session will host filmmakers in conversation.

“It’s the strongest program we’ve ever had.” says festival director Michael Traina.  “Each program features 8-10 shorts, and there’s a little something for everyone.”  This year’s Oscar winner for Best Animated Short, “The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore,” is screening at the 2:30 p.m. program.  More than a dozen filmmakers from five countries will be on hand to discuss the films and take questions from the audience.

Tickets for the festival are available at McNear’s Restaurant, Copperfield’s Books in Petaluma, or online through the Petaluma Film Alliance and Mystic Theatre Web sites.   Tickets range from $10-15.  All-day passes are available for $25.