Behind the Lens: In Conversation with the Roxie Theater

Jul 15, 2025

For over 30 years, the SFFILM Mel Novikoff Award has honored individuals or institutions whose work has enhanced the film-going public’s appreciation of world cinema. This year, we honored the Roxie Theater, a local gem, cultural landmark, and steadfast champion of independent cinema.

During the 2025 SFFILM Festival, we presented the Mel Novikoff Award to the Roxie Theater. The Roxie Theater is home to more than 100 years of cinematic memories for movie lovers across the Bay Area and SFFILM Director of Programming Jessie Fairbanks joined Roxie Theater Executive Director Lex Sloan and Director of Programming Isabel Fondevila on stage to talk more about their importance as San Francisco institution.

“It’s the people. [You all] are the north star. What we do here is more than just movies. Whether it’s a drag show or a filmmaker here in conversation… It’s [about] being a space to bring people together… There’s nothing like watching movies in a cinema with strangers. It’s just one of the most magical feelings in the world,” said Roxie Executive Director Lex Sloan.

Watch the full conversation to hear more about the past, present, and future of the Roxie Theater.

SFFILM Mel Novikoff Award—In Conversation with the Roxie Theater

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