From Tahoe to Sicily: Filmmaker and Clean Up The Lake Director Colin West Premieres New Documentary “SICILIA” at Newport Beach Film Festival
By Sierra Rec Magazine Staff
Lake Tahoe, NV – October 15, 2025
Known across the Sierra as the driving force behind Clean Up The Lake, filmmaker and conservation leader Colin West is stepping into a new creative spotlight. His latest feature documentary, SICILIA, a stunning cinematic journey across Italy’s most storied island, will make its North American Premiere this Friday, October 17, at the Newport Beach Film Festival.
“Italy has always held a special place in my heart,” West shared. “It’s where I studied as a young man, learned the language, and where I ultimately proposed and married my wife. Sicily stands apart — it’s bold and gentle, ancient and evolving, raw yet poetic.”
A Celebration of Culture and Craft
Described by West as a “love letter to Sicily,” the 60-minute feature is a visually rich, character-driven documentary that celebrates artisans, winemakers, fishermen, and chefs who keep centuries-old traditions alive.
Produced through Westbound Media Company with collaborators Cynthia Cendreda and cinematographer Rupert Crotchety, the film captures the soul of a land where heritage and modern life intertwine. Created in partnership with Sicilia DOC, SICILIA blends authentic voices and breathtaking cinematography to immerse viewers in the rhythms of the island.
Recognition Across the Globe
Following its World Premiere at the Ischia Film & Music Festival, SICILIA earned praise for its artistry and intimacy. The film went on to win Best Sicily Documentary at the Madonie Film Festival and has been named a Quarter Finalist for Best Feature Documentary, Best Director, and Best Editing at the Auguri Film Festival in Turin, Italy.
A Tahoe Filmmaker with a Global Vision
While SICILIA explores Mediterranean culture, it reflects the same storytelling values that have defined West’s Tahoe-based environmental work.
As Founder and Executive Director of Clean Up The Lake, West has used film to amplify conservation and community action. His upcoming projects include What Lies Unseen, a docu-series chronicling his dive team’s restoration efforts, and 72 Miles, a feature film focused on Tahoe’s shoreline health.
Through SICILIA, West reveals another side of that mission — celebrating human resilience and connection to place wherever it’s found.
Festival Premiere Details
North American Premiere:
- Event: Newport Beach Film Festival
- Date: Friday, October 17, 2025
- Time: 5:15 PM
- Location: Big Newport 5 Theatre
About Colin West
Colin West is an award-winning director, writer, and producer with more than 15 years of experience across 14 countries. His work has appeared on Hulu, Amazon Prime, ABC, and Air New Zealand In-Flight Entertainment. Through Westbound Media Company, he continues to create films that blend cinematic style with emotional storytelling.
Before launching Westbound Media, West founded WINERAM Productions, known for international wine documentaries and travel series.
Why This Story Matters to the Sierra
Colin West represents the adventurous, creative, and community-minded spirit of the Sierra Nevada. Whether cleaning Tahoe’s lakebed or capturing the soul of Sicily, his projects remind us that the most meaningful stories begin with our connection to place.
As West’s work continues to expand globally, it’s clear his passion for preservation and storytelling remains rooted right here in the Sierra.
