When it comes time for the San Francisco Film Society to pick its annual honorees, it’s all about the stars aligning — literally. The cinematic heavy hitters considered for the society’s four big awards need to have a truly impressive body of work, have at least one foot still planted firmly in the world of filmmaking, and be available to show up in person during the San Francisco International Film Festival. Said SFFS Executive Director Noah Cowan, “We’re always looking for the right person at the right time.”
The spring of 2016 was apparently the right time for the SFFS to recognize Oscar-winning actress Ellen Burstyn with the Peter J. Owens Award for Acting, one of four awards presented at the annual Film Society Awards Night on Monday. Burstyn arrived at the Herbst Pavilion at Fort Mason in a beaded tie-dyed kimono, comfortable shoes and palpable grace. When I asked the 83-year-old her secret to longevity, Burstyn replied, “Eat well and exercise, follow your dreams and your passions, and don’t drink too much.”
Actress Marcia Gay Harden was thrilled when she was told that Burstyn had requested her to introduce the award. “She is a goddess,” swooned Harden. “No less, no more. A goddess.”
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