It was announced today by SBIFF Executive Director Roger Durlingthat Sandra Bullock will receive the American Riviera Award Presented By Chopin on Friday, February 5, at the 25th edition of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, which runs February 4-14, 2010.

The American Riviera Award, sponsored by Chopin Vodka, was established to recognize an actor who has had a strong influence on American Cinema. Bullock will join an illustrious group of past recipients: Mickey Rourke (09), Tommy Lee Jones (08), Forrest Whitaker (07), Philip Seymour Hoffman (06), Kevin Bacon (05) and Diane Lane (04).

"Bullock's career-capping performance in The Blind Side encompasses everything we have loved about her since the early 90's, from the deft physical comedy in While You Were Sleeping to the mettle of her role in the Academy Award-winning Crash," commented Durling. "What a most perfect time to salute this enduring movie star's lengthy career."

Bullock displays tremendous talent and versatility in everything she does. From her work in romantic comedies such as Love Potion No. 9, While You Were Sleeping, Practical Magic, Miss Congeniality and the recent hit The Proposal, to more dramatic fare such as The Net, A Time to Kill, 28 Days, Murder By Numbers and Crash, she expertly navigates between various genres and has brought to life a diverse group of characters. She has consistently contributed to the cinematic landscape of America throughout her career. But it's the compelling performance by Bullock in The Blind Side that has caused audiences and critics to sit up and take notice this year. The chic and intense character of Leigh Ann in The Blind Side blends Bullock's established talent as well as highlights the brilliance of depth and beauty that she brings to the table every time.

Tickets for the American Riviera Award Presented by Chopin, which takes place Friday, February 5 at the Arlington Theatre are available now, discounted 20% until December 31, 2009 and can be purchased through www.sbfilmfestival.org or by calling 805.962.8543. Mini-Paks for the festival (NOT passes) are discounted 20% until December 31, as well, while Festival Passes and Packages are currently discounted at 15% and on sale exclusively at www.sbfilmfestival.org and 805.962.8543. Ticketing fees will apply for all Film Festival Passes, Mini-Paks and event tickets.

The Santa Barbara International Film Festival, set to run February 4 - 14, 2010, is a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching local culture and raising consciousness of film as an art form. The SBIFF presents quality American and world independent films, Latin American and Asian sidebars as well as documentary cinema within the beautiful setting of downtown Santa Barbara, a premier tourist destination. The SBIFF is also committed to education through its Student Filmmaking and Screenwriting Competitions, Field Trip to the Movies, and educational seminars. With a projected audience of over 70,000 viewing more than 200 films over its eleven-day run, the SBIFF attracts an affluent local and national consumer base, while maintaining strong ties with the entertainment industry in nearby Los Angeles. For more information, please visit www.sbfilmfestival.org.