OCEAN'S THIRTEEN SPLASHES onto the screen as the opening night premiere film for CineVegas 2007. This film is the embodiment of the spirit of risk that will thematically weave through the offerings at this year's event to be held June 6–June 16 at The Palms' Brenden Theaters. Directed by Steven Soderbergh, Ocean's 13 creates the ultimate risk taking atmosphere that will envelop this year's CineVegas. "CineVegas has truly hit the jackpot with Ocean's Thirteen," said artistic director, Trevor Groth. "From the original, starring the iconic Vegas legends, The Rat Pack, through the first two installments of the new Ocean's franchise, the films have emanated an unsurpassed coolness fueled by the essence of Las Vegas. CineVegas is honored to open the festival with a film based on our turf that will launch us into the stratosphere of global recognition," said Groth.

The films will also offer high-profile motion pictures, independent ventures seeking distribution and a view into the world of Mexican cinema. This is all part of the tradition of CineVegas, for it is a celebration that traditionally showcases new and challenging films in its program.

According to Trevor Groth, the artistic director of CineVegas, this year's focus will be on the risk-taking atmosphere that engulfs Las Vegas itself. The Ninth Annual CineVegas Festival is not just for filmmakers and those who live outside of the valley. Mr. Groth emphasized that he wanted to involve the local citizens in the festival and open their awareness of the magical world of film.

Trevor Groth started out as a youngster in Salt Lake City going to nearby Park City, Utah and going to the Sundance Film Festival. From that moment on, he was hooked on the world of illusion that is the basis for filmmaking. He majored in Film at the University of Utah and over the years became more and more involved with the festival side of the industry. Trevor has had a lifelong love affair with the medium of film. Years later, Trevor became involved in the programming of the Sundance Film Festival for 14 years.

Francisco Menendez, the chairman of the Film Department of UNLV's School of Fine Arts, joined him in the original concept of creating a film festival here in Las Vegas. Trevor wanted their collective participation that began with his involvement five years ago. With the partnership of both Francisco Menendez and Trevor Groth, the filmmaking community and the local citizens embraced CineVegas. Together they began to plan how the festival should celebrate not only the big marquee motion pictures, but aim at the ever-growing discipline of independent cinema. UNLV's film school takes part in CineVegas every year by having a program of films made by the students—the future filmmaking artists of the world of cinema. The opportunity for young filmmakers to have their work shown to audiences at CineVegas is a coup for their futures. It gives the apprentice film students an opportunity to have their work included at the CineVegas Festival, and receive feedback via comment cards filled out by audience members.

According to Mr. Groth, the exposure to independent films and different cultures helps to expand the audience's awareness. He feels that the Las Vegas filmgoers are a tough audience to create a complete awareness of the spirit itself of cinema. Hopefully, he feels, this year's CineVegas Film Festival will be an impetus in creating that spirit and awareness.

Sir Anthony Hopkins will be the recipient of the 2007 Key Award for his lifetime body of work. Sir Hopkins is one of the finest actors to grace the screen for many years and has brought life to some incredible characters that he has portrayed on film.

Jerry Weintraub, will be bestowed with the Vanguard Producer Award for his many films—including the festival's opener—Ocean's Thirteen. Weintraub will be joined at the opening night festivities with his cast present to honor him. This list includes George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Don Cheadle, Ellen Barkin and Andy Garcia. The event will benefit the aid group, International Rescue Committee for Not On Our Watch. Festival president, Robin Greenspun, will present Weintraub (acting as spokesman for Not On Our Watch) with a check from the fundraising efforts of CineVegas 2007.

Closing night will be the cap on the lid for the risk-takers—You Kill Me, directed by John Dahl and starring Ben Kingsley, is about an alcoholic button man (hit man) who wishes to seek absolution from his lifestyle.

Lovers of films, curious locals, and filmmakers in spirit—take the risk—become aware—and rejoice—for CineVegas 2007 is about to dazzle your imaginations. This annual festival is a chance to experience the wonderful world of filmmaking!

Sit back, film rolls, lights dim—the action unfolds…