Judd Apatow, Jeffrey and Ben Lyons at the 2013 San Diego Film Festival

The San Diego Film Festival keeps getting better and better.  And for a film buff like me, having a bit of Hollywood glamour in our city is also a thrilling experience.

Judd Apatow arrives at the SDFF red carpet. Photo S. Valle

One of the highlights of this year’s festival, was a tribute to the prolific writer and director Judd Apatow held the Museum of Contemporary Art in La Jolla, California.

Apatow was very generous with his time, and shared his comedic talent with the audience as well as a few personal stories. Steve Martin and Apatow had an encounter when the “Bridesmaids” producer was just 13, and this marked the beginning of his love affair with comedy.

Judd Apatow and Suzette Valle at the San Diego Film Festival

Read my article at TheWrap.com for more personal stories and other secrets Apatow shared with us that evening.

Ron Burgundy himself made a video appearance in San Diego to offer Apatow his heartfelt congratulations on a job well done.

Will Ferrel aka Ron Burgundy congratulated Apatow on his award at the SDFF

The father-son team of film critics Jeffery and Ben Lyons were also in San Diego for the festival.  Lyons senior is  a 43-year veteran and critic of movies,  and was also this year’s host as well as Honorary Jury President of the San Diego Film Festival. Ben Lyons is an “Extra” correspondent and host of ESPN’s LA radio show.

Jeffrey and Ben Lyons at the San Diego Film Festival. Photo S. Valle

The duo also held an intimate panel at Vin de Syrah, where they spoke candidly about the role of film critics, the state of films and television, as well as their thoughts about the impact traditional and social media have on films.

The San Diego Film Festival opened it’s 2013 celebration with the powerful film “12 Years A Slave.” Other notable films festival goers were treated to included “About Time” and “Osage County” with Meryl Streep.

Guests arrive at the SDFF Red Carpet Filmmakers Awards ceremony at the La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art. Photo S. Valle

After 12 years of showcasing some of the best films to hit the silver screen, 2013 marked yet another spectacular event put on by the San Diego Film Festival organization.