Local film to screen at Panida Theater
Aerial image of Sandpoint circa 1960s by Jim Parsons, Jr. Donated by the Clarice and Jim Parsons Collection.
Courtesy of BONNER COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
SANDPOINT — On the final day of the Sandpoint Winter Carnival, Panida Theater and Bonner County Historical Society will show a film highlighting Sandpoint’s history from its prehistoric days to its 2001 centennial anniversary.
“Sandpoint at the North End of the Long Bridge” will be played in honor of the film’s creator, Erik Daarstad, who passed away in March 2023. Daarstad, an award-winning cinematographer, was a resident of Sandpoint for over 30 years. He was a beloved supporter of the community, with his vision and love for Sandpoint shared throughout his North Idaho film.
After production was finished, Daarstad gave the film’s rights to Bonner County Historical Society. The film follows the prehistoric timeline of Sandpoint through the ice age, Missoula flood and other historical events. The film also includes several interviews with city residents and credits the help of over 50 other residents.
Bonner County Historical Society executive director Hannah Combs said she is excited to share the film.
“I’ve learned and heard a lot about the people who have lived here but are no longer with us. I’m excited to see those individuals on screen,” said Combs, adding she hopes that surviving family members of the interviewees will attend the screening.
The movie, Combs said, is an opportunity to bring the community together through a film that was created by locals for locals.
"I hope community members can recognize that we all share a deep love for this place, whether it’s through scenery, family generations, community or wacky events. Everyone can connect with their neighbor through their love of Sandpoint,” said Combs.
The movie will start at 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23; intermission will start at 2 p.m. and will include a question-and-answer session with screenwriter Sandy Compton. Compton will share his stories of working with Daarstad and experience of creating the film. The second half of the show will start at 2:45 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. Admission is $10 and free for children 12 and under.