Humboldt-Del Norte Film Commission Celebrates 11th Annual Oscar Watch Party

Tonight, the Historic Eureka Theater in Eureka becomes Humboldt County's own version of Hollywood, as the Humboldt-Del Norte Film Commission opens the doors at 3:30 p.m. for "One Gala After Another," its 11th Annual Red Carpet Gala and a celebration built around a film the region helped bring to life.

The evening centers on "One Battle After Another," a production that began filming in Humboldt County and went on to earn 13 Academy Award nominations. The 97th Academy Awards broadcast starts on the theater screen at 4 p.m., giving guests a front-row seat to watch whether a film with deep local roots takes home Hollywood's highest honor.

Hesseltine, speaking on behalf of the commission, said the film's success carries particular weight here because Humboldt County hosted the beginning of the production. "We're anticipating that we might all be very excited and want to move our bodies around after possibly getting Best Picture," Hesseltine said.

The commission renamed its annual gala this year to mirror the film's title, a deliberate nod to the connection between the North Coast and the nominated production. Traditionally the organization's signature red carpet night, the event now doubles as a community-wide acknowledgment of how rarely a region this size lands at the center of an Oscar race.

Tickets include professional red carpet photos, music by DJ Sovernt, curated bites, and access to a no-host bar. Guests were encouraged to arrive in formal wear or, as the commission put it, their "best plaid bathrobe." During commercial breaks, short videos will recognize board members, interns, and community partners who supported the commission's work. Local actors featured in the film are expected to attend alongside community members.

The evening also marks the commission's 15th anniversary as an organization, layering an institutional milestone onto an already singular night for North Coast film culture. Sponsors Redwood Region Economic Development Commission and Hyperion Humboldt Realty are supporting the event.

Students seeking a discounted ticket can inquire about a $25 option by contacting admin@hdnfc.org.