The fourth year also saw the debut of the Spring Sampler, an April event that included 10 screenings and several visiting filmmakers.
Twenty-eight guest filmmakers attended, and a special feature included an opening weekend Star Tribute to screen legend Tony Curtis at the Fox Theatre, where a Hollywood Film Artist Award was presented.
In 1998, Delcia Corlew was named the Festival's managing director, and the offices moved to its current headquarters in St. Louis’ Central West End.
As of 2008, the festival's artistic director is Chris Clark, and operations supervisor is Brian Spath.
[2] The 2009 fest included a gala event for the movie Up in the Air, which was largely filmed in St. Louis, featuring a Q&A session with director Jason Reitman.