![](../images/for_pdf/1212-03401.jpg) | | Lillias White Photo provided | | | | | | For the first time its 21-year history, the California Independent Film Festival will kick off the festivities, and set the tone for the remaining seven days, with the world premiere of an international film - the delightful Austrian romantic drama "The Salzburg Story." CAIFF opens Aug. 24 at the Rheem Theatre.
"The Salzburg Story" is a fairy tale romance told by a 70-year-old lady to her young granddaughter. She relates the star-crossed story of a selfish but gifted young Austrian composer who finds his world turned upside down by the arrival of a carefree young American woman. She breaks down his defenses and encourages him to follow the dreams from which his father has held him back. But time is running out, as the young man's old habits of pushing love away are in conflict with his new love's hopes, and her imminent departure from Austria.
The Opening Night reception will start at 6 p.m. in the Rheem Theatre lobby, followed by the movie screening at 7:30 p.m. Director and writer Alexander Peter Lercher and several cast members from Austria, including one of their most sought-after actors, Alfons Haider, will be flying across the Atlantic to attend the world premiere. Alfons is also the host of Austria's most successful TV show, "Dancing Stars." Plus, in 2006, he was voted sexiest Austrian male star by German television.
Tickets are now on sale online at www.caiff.org for the 21st California Independent Film Festival and also at the Rheem and Orinda Theatre box offices.
See you at the festival!
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