The name’s Village. Belmont Village. When Belmont Village Senior Living presented this year’s “Belmont Blooms,” an annual event that channels residents’ creativity into various themes, it decided to put on a film festival. Previous years have featured a fashion show and an Olympics-style event. For 10 residents of Belmont Village La Jolla, filmmaking inspiration came from none other than James Bond. Their 12-minute film, titled “Ace of Plates,” follows resident Dwight McDonald as Agent 0070s as he seeks a prized diamond to return it to its rightful place. With guidance from Eva Fogel’s Madame M, Agent 0070s dodges danger and encounters an eccentric cast of characters along the way. “Ace of Plates,” created and directed by Gianna Meaglia, premiered at Belmont Village’s Sabre Springs location May 15. More than 60 residents and staff members were present for the Hollywood-inspired event, which included red-carpet arrivals, film screenings, nonprofit booths and more. “Ace of Plates” isn’t just a Bond homage. As with the films from the three other participating Belmont Village communities in San Diego and Orange counties, it places a spotlight on a local organization the group supports. For the La Jolla team, the organization is Kitchens for Good, a San Diego-based nonprofit that seeks to help people with potential barriers to employment — such as mental health, substance abuse and legal issues — earn a living through culinary and hospitality training. Thus far, its apprenticeship programs have helped more than 700 people and, in 2023, led to the development of a boutique commercial bakery in San Diego’s Old Town, according to Kitchens for Good. “Ace of Plates,” however fantastical, explores themes of redemption aligned with Kitchens for Good’s mission. “I hope people get a good laugh and the basic knowledge about an amazing organization thatprovides an opportunity for individuals who are seeking a second chance at their future,” Fogel said. The filming it was a “great process” that helped build community, she said. The process for creating “Ace of Plates” began in February, when Belmont Village communities throughout the nation got to work on documentaries. The La Jolla location decided to put its own spin on the idea, morphing a documentary with a “fun” piece. James Arp, executive director at Belmont Village La Jolla, said he has seen the community rally around the project. “They develop such wonderful camaraderie,” Arp said. “The buzz that’s been happening since the filming of the documentary the last couple of months … provides such a wonderful purpose and drive for their day that differs from every other day and every other experience. “Some people have been very shy in front of the camera and then start loosening up after the fourth or fifth take of a scene.” McDonald, as the lead character, applauded Meaglia’s direction and the cast that brought the film to life. “It was so much fun to build creativity and be a part of something that gives back to the community,” McDonald said. “The way the film came together, I am so proud.” ♦