Host Brian Sebastian and Fitness Model Merica Abbado Attend Opening Night at TCL Chinese Theatre
Movie Reviews and More, the award-winning independent media platform ranked #4 on The Hollywood Elites’ 2025 list of Best TV, Radio Shows & Podcasts, delivered exclusive, independent coverage of AFI FEST 2025 presented by Canva, offering audiences front-row access to one of the entertainment industry’s premier film festivals.
Host and CEO Brian Sebastian attended opening night at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre alongside fitness model and rising influencer Merica Abbado, representing a new generation of independent media voices filling the gap left by traditional outlets.
“We’re providing access to celebrities and premium entertainment events that audiences wouldn’t otherwise have,” said Sebastian, whose multiplatform reach spans more than 100 global outlets. “The world has changed, and in many cases, we’re the only media presence at these events, bringing coverage directly to viewers when traditional press isn’t available.”
AFI FEST 2025, sponsored by presenting partner Canva and official water sponsor FIJI Water, showcased 161 films from 56 countries, including world premieres, international Oscar submissions, and works by acclaimed auteurs. The five-day festival featured red carpet premieres, special screenings, and documentaries across both the TCL Chinese Theatre and The Egyptian Theatre.
Throughout the festival, Sebastian captured exclusive moments with major Hollywood talent at high-profile premieres. At the Selena y Los Dinos screening, Sebastian covered the Q&A featuring Suzette Quintanilla, Selena’s sister and former bandmate, and Chris Pérez, Selena’s widower and lead guitarist, for the Sundance award-winning film directed by Isabel Castro.
Sebastian also attended the premiere of Train Dreams, featuring William H. Macy, Joel Edgerton, and Kerry Condon in Clint Bentley’s adaptation of Denis Johnson’s novella, as well as Rental Family, starring Brendan Fraser in director HIKARI’s moving exploration of human connection in modern-day Tokyo. These encounters highlight Movie Reviews and More’s direct access to entertainment’s most significant cultural moments and the award-winning talent behind them.
Sebastian’s presence underscores the evolving media landscape, one where independent platforms increasingly lead festival coverage and deliver celebrity access that major outlets often overlook. Through Movie Reviews and More’s weekly live-streaming broadcasts on iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, K4HD Radio, Talk4Media, iTube247, and more the show continues to share entertainment insights and behind-the-scenes exclusives with audiences worldwide.
On iTube247 alone, Movie Reviews and More has garnered over 40 million cumulative views, reinforcing its position as a leader in independent entertainment journalism. The platform’s multi-channel approach ensures audiences can access premium coverage on their preferred streaming service.
Stay tuned for more red-carpet exclusives and interviews from Brian Sebastian and the Movie Reviews and More team across YouTube and Instagram @moviereviewsnmore, and connect with Brian on LinkedIn or Facebook for the latest updates.
