As the 2012 Santa Barbara International Film Festival comes to an end, we are left reeling over every feature we saw, director we interviewed and cast we had the honor of meeting. With over 200 movies, shorts and documentaries showing on the big screen, we wanted to put some of our favorites in review for you.  NOTE: select films from the festival will be screening for FREE at the Riviera Theatre February 10-12, 2012.

What:  Starbuck
This Canadian comedy follows the life of an irresponsible but loving man who comes to find out he's fathered 533 children through donating to a fertility clinic in his youth.
Expect to:  Laugh, laugh and laugh some more.
Catch the Flick:  Summer, 2012
Out of 5:  5

What:  Declaration of War
Based in Paris, France, and on a true story, this artistic French flick takes you through one couples struggle and fight for their young son who is diagnosed with cancer.
Expect to:  Laugh, cry, and love
Catch the Flick:  Showing in select theaters February, 2012
Out of 5:  4

What:  Iris In Bloom
A coming of age film that follows a 16 year old girl through the somewhat complex moments of figuring out who she is amid her teen years.
Expect to:  Feel a bit unresolved.
Catch the Flick:  TBD
Out of 5:  3.5

What:  The Kill Hole
We had chills just listening to director Mischa Webley and cast describe what it was like to film this intense, emotional, thriller. Set in Portland, Oregon, the film tells the story of war and the damage it leaves behind in those who fight it.
Expect to:  Laugh, cry, and let your heart race.
Catch the Flick:  Summer, 2012
Out of 5:  5

What:  Lucky
While the title pretty much depicts the opposite of what it reads, this heartwarming feature follows a recently orphaned South African boy who's trying to make his way in a very unlucky world.
Expect to:  Laugh, cry, and appreciate the life you live.
Catch the Flick:  TBD
Out of 5:  4

What:  Splinters
Calling all surfers and wannabe's - this documentary chronicles the life of 4 surfers and how the sport changes their lives in the small village of Papua New Guinea.
Expect to:  Laugh and desire to catch a few waves of your own.
Catch the Flick:  Showing now in select theaters
Out of 5:  4

What:  Salmon Fishing in the Yemen
This dramatic romantic-comedy stole our hearts. It's a film that portrays making the impossible possible in a very political world.
Expect to:  Laugh, cry, love and feel inspired
Catch the Flick:  March 9, 2012
Out of 5:  5

** Be sure to follow this Wednesday's Green Scene for a review of our favorite eco-films.