Hero. “A mythological or legendary figure, often of divine descent, endowed with great strength or ability.” If definition alone determines our concept of heroism, only the like of those who fly around in red capes would qualify for the title. But history tells us that even those less pervious to kryptonite have merited the moniker. So what qualifies someone as a hero? What standard should we use to measure their feats?

Those who seek glory for themselves often follow the path to their own destruction; while those who sacrifice their own lives for others find the glory and honor they never sought. From Homer to Shakespeare to J.K. Rowling, the most unforgettable characters are those who overcome the insurmountable odds set before them and do so at the risk of losing their own life.

This year, the 2006 City of Angels Film Festival will explore the cinematic representation of Heroes, from the battlefields in Vietnam to the streets of Los Angeles. The men and women in these films inspire and challenge us to make changes in our lives, to consider others more than we consider ourselves.

Perhaps they also inspire us by stirring within us the desire to excel, to leave our imprint on history. Or maybe their act of self-sacrifice gives us hope that there is a much greater force that compels us to love, as much as it loves us.

We welcome you to this year’s festival and invite you to dialogue and share your own thoughts on what it means to be a Hero.

Monica Jimenez-Grillo
2006 CAFF Producer