Rob Giardinelli
Event Celebrates Silver Anniversary With Star-Studded Gala With Texas And Hollywood Roster
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by David Brendan Hall and Lauren Slusher
and Sherri West
Rebecca Campbell
THE SCENE: Distribution Hall in Austin was the setting for one of the city’s most anticipated and star-studded nights of the year. Over 450 notable film lovers, patrons, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the 25th annual Texas Film Hall of Fame Awards. Hosted by, and benefiting, the Austin Film Society, this year’s event was made even more special in that it was celebrating its silver anniversary…and still showcasing why it is one of the state’s most fun, anticipated galas each year.
THE VIBE: The country-chic crowd saw patrons donning their favorite western-themed ensembles. In the crowd, one could spot a mix of denim and diamonds, cowboy hats, boots, bandanas, and more. The result was a warm, welcoming environment for everyone who attended.
The night began as VIPs took their turn on the red carpet to be photographed and commemorate this special night in Austin film, while others took advantage of the picture-perfect Spring evening to enjoy a beverage and mingle with other guests underneath the beautiful Live Oak trees that adorn the exterior grounds of Distribution Hall.
and Shonnery Pettit
The action then moved inside Distribution Hall for the evening’s main program. As guests dined on a delectable, multi-course meal courtesy of Cameron Lockley of Flavor Hospitality Group, they were treated to words from event leaders including founder and Academy award-nominated Richard Linklater who thanked people for their tireless support of the Texas Film Awards over the past 25 years…and their support of Austin Film Society over the past 40 years.
Mark Winkleman
Rob Giardinelli
Next, TiWanna Kinney of Astounding Auctions led a spirited live auction and Fund-A-Need. The paddles went up as revelers bid on an array of luxury experiences with a Wine Country Getaway at Bella Oaks in Napa and two VIP tickets to the New York premiere of the upcoming Richard Linklater Film Blue Moon, emerging as the most popular.
The evening was capped off by honoring the four 2025 Texas Film Awards Honorees for their substantial contributions to the film industry. Zazie Beetz and David Rysdahl spoke on behalf of screenwriter and producer Noah Hawley for his long and distinguished career, including his creation of the iconic television series Fargo. Vin Diesel spoke on behalf of honoree Michelle Rodriguez for her successful acting career in the television and film industry. Elijah Wood spoke on behalf of Karrie and Tim League, founders of Alamo Draft House, who have transformed how films are viewed not just in Austin, but around the world.
THE NON-PROFIT: The 2025 Texas Film Awards, co-chaired by Tracey Marshall and Sherri West, raised over $750,000 for the Austin Film Society. Funds raised from the event will go towards providing grants and funding to aspiring Texas filmmakers looking to make their mark in the world of cinema. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, the organization has grown substantially since its founding in 1985 and now operates Austin Studios, a 20-acre production facility in the city.
