To the after-party, of course! Nearly half of the more than 1,600 attendees at the gala moved on to the Parker Palm Springs hotel for gourmet hors d'oeuvres, exotic drinks, music and conversation glamorous enough for a movie script.

Jim Casey, president and CEO of Integrated Wealth Management was there, receiving thanks from all the VIPs for being a producing sponsor of the film festival this year. Those who were more financially knowledgeable were thanking him for the fine investment counseling IWM provides to many major players in the film industry.

Locals like TV host Gloria Greer, Fred and Linda Williamson, and Kathleen Bennett were all commenting on the enthusiasm and excitement that seems to permeate every event this year. Pam Erwin and Susan Unger of Wells Fargo, also a producing sponsor, said, "This is the most passionate festival ever, and there was such amazing cohesive chemistry among the actors and presenters."

Festival honoree Sean Penn, quoting producer/director Norman Jewison, repeated, "This film festival is perfect timing for pre-academy voting. It is a great push to bring stars here just before the academy votes. It's wonderful."

Read the article on DesertSun.com >>>