By JANE MOUNTAIN, Contributing Editor

Audi of America returns to AFI FEST as presenting sponsor for 2007. Audi's generous support allows AFI FEST to present one of the world's most anticipated showcases of international films each year.

"Audi's involvement has been transformative," said Christian Gaines, Festival Director. "Audi and AFI's film festival embody so many of the same ideals - truth, innovation, excellence. Audi has an established reputation as a leader in the world of high-performance, luxury automobiles, and AFI FEST presented by Audi is an established leader and innovator in the world of international cinema. It's a perfect fit."

Stephen Berkov, Audi of America's Director, Brand Innovation, agrees. "Our brand is all about leading through superior solutions, and the institute has a similar philosophy when it comes to the education of future creative talent. We sponsor AFI FEST because we want to support the craft of future generations of Hollywood and international filmmakers, and support the environment for creativity that the AFI fosters."