The city of Goleta will premiere a new short film, “Ellwood Mesa: Beyond the Bluffs” that will be shown as part of a California Stories Shorts Block at the first Wild and Free Film Festival, 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16 at Camino Real Cinemas, 7040 Market Place, Goleta.

Tickets are free for this event, but seating is limited. Attendees are encouraged to arrive by 1:30 p.m. and stay until about 3:30 p.m. for the Q&A panel following the showing of the films.

“Ellwood Mesa: Beyond the Bluffs” is the story of how the Goleta community came together decades ago to protect the space, and the perseverance that still exists to steward the land for all to enjoy.

“It highlights the race to protect the place thousands of monarch butterflies return to every winter,” the city said.

The film was created as part of Ellwood Mesa’s 20-year anniversary of when the land was saved from development and officially turned over to the city of Goleta to be preserved as open space.

“We hope you enjoy this heartfelt tribute showcasing the community’s enduring passion and commitment to Ellwood Mesa,” said Kelly Hoover, Goleta community relations manager. “Prepare yourself to leave the theater feeling motivated to never give up when you care about something worth fighting for.”

The city said the film is a natural fit to be included in the first Wild and Free Film Festival, a weekend long independent film festival Nov. 14-16 at Camino Real Cinemas.

The festival will feature the screening of 30 new and original films that celebrate adventurous, diverse, and environmentally conscious storytelling from around the world.

To see the full festival line-up and ticket options, including an all-access pass and tickets for the opening night film and reception, visit www.wildandfreefilm.org.

Sunday tickets are free for the Community Day, but all access pass holders will receive priority seating.

“The city was pleased to partner with Paradigm Pictures and Ellwood Friends to put together this short film,” organizers said. “We recognize that there are so many more historical details, stories and people not included in this short film that are a part of Ellwood Mesa’s incredible story. We want to express our sincere appreciation for each and every one of you.”

For a more detailed account of Ellwood Mesa’s history and stories, visit ellwoodfriends.org/stories.