'It's A Wonderful Life' Star To Be Honored At Reston Film Festival

RESTON, VA — A new biographical film about Hollywood legend Jimmy Stewart will make its East Coast premiere Saturday at Reston Town Center, where a star of the holiday classic "It's a Wonderful Life" will also receive a lifetime achievement award.

The Washington West Film Festival will host an exclusive screening of "JIMMY," starring KJ Apa of "Riverdale" as Stewart, at LOOK Cinemas on Oct. 10.

The film follows Stewart's journey from Hollywood actor to World War II combat pilot, and his return to acting in the 1946 classic "It's a Wonderful Life," where he played George Bailey.

According to festival organizers, Washington West will be only the second audience nationwide to see the new film.

The screening will also celebrate the 80th anniversary of "It's a Wonderful Life" by honoring Karolyn Grimes, who played George Bailey's youngest daughter, Zuzu, with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

The evening will begin with a red carpet and press line at 6 p.m., followed by a tribute to actor Robert Duvall at 6:30 p.m. The premiere of "JIMMY" is scheduled for 7 p.m., followed by a question-and-answer session.

Festival organizers have identified Apa, Grimes and Washington West founder and president Brad Russell among those associated with the event.

The Washington West Film Festival, founded in 2011, is celebrating its 15th annual event Oct. 8-12 in Reston.

The festival showcases independent films and donates 100 percent of its net box office proceeds to charitable causes.

Tickets and additional festival information are available at wwfilmfest.com.