Posted by Larry Gleeson
Following the announcement of the Red Carpet Premieres section: Noah Baumbach’s JAY KELLY, starring George Clooney and Adam Sandler; CHRISTY, starring Sydney Sweeney; NUREMBERG, starring Russell Crowe; and Gus Van Sant’s DEAD MAN’S WIRE, starring Bill Skarsgård, several new titles have been added to the Special Screenings section!
Posted by Larry Gleeson
WORLD PREMIERE OF THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: SEARCH FOR SQUAREPANTS SET FOR AFI FEST 2025 PRESENTED BY CANVA
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — Los Angeles, CA, September 18, 2025 – Today, the American Film Institute (AFI) announced that THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: SEARCH FOR SQUAREPANTS from Paramount Animation and Nickelodeon Movies, in association with Domain Entertainment and MRC, will have its World Premiere at AFI FEST 2025 presented by Canva. Desperate to be a big guy, SpongeBob sets out to prove his bravery to Mr. Krabs by following The Flying Dutchman — a mysterious swashbuckling ghost pirate — on a seafaring comedy-adventure that takes him to the deepest depths of the deep sea where no Sponge has gone before. The family-friendly film, directed by Derek Drymon, will screen in the afternoon on October 26, the Closing Day of the festival, at the historic TCL Chinese Theatre as part of the Red Carpet Premieres section. Passes are available at FEST.AFI.com.
The film features Tom Kenny, Clancy Brown, Rodger Bumpass, Bill Fagerbakke, Carolyn Lawrence, Mr. Lawrence, George Lopez, Isis “Ice Spice” Gaston, Arturo Castro, Sherry Cola with Regina Hall and Mark Hamill, and it will be released on December 19.
Making its Los Angeles debut with the feature is the new short film TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES CHROME ALONE 2: LOST IN NEW JERSEY. From producers Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, James Weaver, Jeff Rowe, and Ramsay McBean and directed by Kent Seki, the film reunites audiences with the Turtle brothers from the 2023 feature TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: MUTANT MAYHEM for a festive adventure. When a mysterious toy company seeks to profit off the turtles’ new hero status, the brothers follow the clues to New Jersey and make a shocking discovery in this all new original short.
The festival will take place October 22–26 at the TCL Chinese Theatres in the heart of Hollywood and feature a curated selection of Red Carpet Premieres, Special Screenings, World Cinema, Documentaries and Short Films.
As previously announced, Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro will serve as the Guest Artistic Director for this year’s festival, and the festival will open with SPRINGSTEEN: DELIVER ME FROM NOWHERE and will close with the World Premiere of SONG SUNG BLUE.
Passes to AFI FEST 2025 are now available for purchase online at FEST.AFI.com. Festivalgoers have the opportunity to purchase a Star Pass or upgrade to a Patron Pass. The AFI FEST Star Pass is a five-day pass with access to all screenings (excluding Red Carpet Premieres), early screening selection before individual tickets go on sale, priority theater access, entry to the festival lounge, invitation to the festival mixer to mingle with filmmakers and guests, a complimentary AFI FEST tote and free Rush Line access to all screenings. The AFI FEST Patron Pass features all the benefits of the Star Pass plus two tickets to all of the star-studded Red Carpet Premieres held at the historic TCL Chinese Theatre and priority screening selection before Star passholders.
The full festival lineup will be unveiled on September 30. Individual tickets will be available on October 6.
AFI FEST is recognized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as a qualifying festival for the Live Action, Animated and Documentary Short Film categories for the annual Academy Awards®. AFI FEST is also a qualifying festival for consideration for the British Short Film categories of both the BAFTA Film Awards and the British Independent Film Awards (BIFA).
AFI is a nonprofit, donor-powered organization. Join AFI’s Premiere Circle to support the American Film Institute and enjoy access to exclusive one-of-a-kind opportunities at AFI events, including AFI FEST. To learn more, email Advancement@AFI.com.
Canva, the all-in-one visual communication and collaboration platform, returns as the exclusive Presenting Sponsor of AFI FEST 2025. Designed to empower entertainment professionals to visualize their ideas into impactful film and TV projects, Canva will be integrated throughout AFI FEST including hosting industry networking events, hands-on training workshops for filmmakers, and powering the festival’s digital and printed materials. Entertainment professionals can explore resources to pitch projects, plan shoots, and bring creative visions to life at canva.com/entertainment.
About the American Film Institute (AFI)
The American Film Institute (AFI) is a nonprofit organization with a mandate to champion the moving image as an art form. Established in 1967, AFI launched the first comprehensive history of American film and sparked the movement for film preservation in the United States. In 1969, AFI opened the doors of the AFI Conservatory, a graduate-level program to train narrative filmmakers. The Conservatory, which counts Deniese Davis, Affonso Gonçalves, Susannah Grant, Matthew Libatique, David Lynch, Melina Matsoukas and Rachel Morrison as Alumni, is ranked as one of the top film schools in America. AFI’s enduring traditions include the AFI Life Achievement Award, which honors the masters for work that has stood the test of time; AFI AWARDS, which celebrates the creative ensembles of the most outstanding screen stories of the year; and scholarly efforts such as the AFI Catalog of Feature Films and the AFI Archive that preserve film history for future generations. AFI exhibition programs include AFI FEST Presented by Canva and year-round exhibition at the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Maryland. AFI Movie Club is a destination for movie lovers from around the world to celebrate and engage with the art form every day. Other pioneering programs include workshops aimed at elevating emerging storytellers and technology, including AFI DWW+ and the AFI Cinematography Intensive Workshop. Read about all of these programs and more at AFI.com and follow us on social media at Facebook.com/AmericanFilmInstitute, YouTube.com/AFI, X.com/AmericanFilm, TikTok.com/@americanfilminstitute and Instagram.com/AmericanFilmInstitute.
About AFI FEST
Now in its 39th year, AFI FEST is a world-class event, showcasing the best films from across the globe. This year’s edition takes place in Los Angeles from October 22-26, 2025. With an innovative slate of programming, the five-day festival presents screenings, panels and conversations, featuring both master filmmakers and new cinematic voices. AFI FEST includes high-profile films with Q&As featuring the films’ cast and crew and a robust lineup of fiction and nonfiction features and shorts, providing a one-of-a-kind experience for movie fans. Additional information is available at FEST.AFI.com. Connect with AFI’s film festival at Facebook.com/AFIFEST, Twitter.com/AFIFEST, Instagram/AmericanFilmInstitute, TikTok/@AmericanFilmInstitute and YouTube.com/AFI.
About Canva
Launched in 2013, Canva is the world’s leading all-in-one platform for visual communication and collaboration. Built to empower everyone to design, the company serves the creative and design needs of enterprises, small businesses, consumers, and students in more than 190 countries worldwide. Whether you’re a novice taking your first steps in design, or a creative professional seeking powerful tools, Canva ensures users have what they need to transform an idea into something beautiful. Underpinned by the world’s most comprehensive library of designer-made content, Canva is powered by a suite of products and proprietary AI tools which elevate how individuals and teams create, collaborate, and communicate with ease.
Press Contact: American Film Institute
Shari Mesulam, Shari@themesulamgroup.com
Posted by Larry Gleeson
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Los Angeles, CA, September 10, 2025 — Today, the American Film Institute (AFI) announced that the World Premiere of Focus Features’ SONG SUNG BLUE, written and directed by Craig Brewer, will close the 39th edition of AFI FEST presented by Canva on Sunday, October 26.
Based on a true story, the film follows two down-on-their-luck musicians, played by Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, who form a joyous Neil Diamond tribute band, proving it’s never too late to find love and follow your dreams. The film is produced by John Davis (p.g.a.), John Fox (p.g.a.) and Craig Brewer (p.g.a.) and features Michael Imperioli, Ella Anderson, King Princess, Mustafa Shakir, Hudson Hensley, with Fisher Stevens, and Jim Belushi.
Bob Gazzale, AFI President and CEO“AFI FEST is proud to close our annual celebration of excellence and artistry with the World Premiere of SONG SUNG BLUE – a timely film about love and resilience – music and magic,” said Bob Gazzale, AFI President and CEO. “Audiences will leave the theater chanting the refrain of “Sweet Caroline” – so good, so good, so good!”
The festival will take place October 22–26 at the TCL Chinese Theatres in the heart of Hollywood and feature a curated selection of Red Carpet Premieres, Special Screenings, World Cinema, Documentaries and Short Films.
As previously announced, Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro will serve as the Guest Artistic Director for this year’s festival, and the festival will open with SPRINGSTEEN: DELIVER ME FROM NOWHERE, starring Jeremy Allen White and written for the screen and directed by Scott Cooper.
Passes to AFI FEST 2025 are now available for purchase online at FEST.AFI.com. Festivalgoers have the opportunity to purchase a Star Pass or upgrade to a Patron Pass. The AFI FEST Star Pass is a five-day pass with access to all screenings (excluding Red Carpet Premieres), early screening selection before individual tickets go on sale, priority theater access, entry to the festival lounge, invitation to the festival mixer to mingle with filmmakers and guests, a complimentary AFI FEST tote and free Rush Line access to all screenings. The AFI FEST Patron Pass features all the benefits of the Star Pass plus two tickets to all of the star-studded Red Carpet Premieres held at the historic TCL Chinese Theatre and priority screening selection before Star passholders.
The full festival lineup will be unveiled on September 30. Individual tickets will be available on October 6.
AFI FEST is recognized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as a qualifying festival for the Live Action, Animated and Documentary Short Film categories for the annual Academy Awards®. AFI FEST is also a qualifying festival for consideration for the British Short Film categories of both the BAFTA Film Awards and the British Independent Film Awards (BIFA).
AFI is a nonprofit, donor-powered organization. Join AFI’s Premiere Circle to support the American Film Institute and enjoy access to exclusive one-of-a-kind opportunities at AFI events, including AFI FEST. To learn more, email Advancement@AFI.com.
Canva, the all-in-one visual communication and collaboration platform, returns as the exclusive Presenting Sponsor of AFI FEST 2025. Designed to empower entertainment professionals to visualize their ideas into impactful film and TV projects, Canva will be integrated throughout AFI FEST including hosting industry networking events, hands-on training workshops for filmmakers, and powering the festival’s digital and printed materials. Entertainment professionals can explore resources to pitch projects, plan shoots, and bring creative visions to life at canva.com/entertainment.
About the American Film Institute (AFI)
The American Film Institute (AFI) is a nonprofit organization with a mandate to champion the moving image as an art form. Established in 1967, AFI launched the first comprehensive history of American film and sparked the movement for film preservation in the United States. In 1969, AFI opened the doors of the AFI Conservatory, a graduate-level program to train narrative filmmakers. The Conservatory, which counts Deniese Davis, Affonso Gonçalves, Susannah Grant, Matthew Libatique, David Lynch, Melina Matsoukas and Rachel Morrison as Alumni, is ranked as one of the top film schools in America. AFI’s enduring traditions include the AFI Life Achievement Award, which honors the masters for work that has stood the test of time; AFI AWARDS, which celebrates the creative ensembles of the most outstanding screen stories of the year; and scholarly efforts such as the AFI Catalog of Feature Films and the AFI Archive that preserve film history for future generations. AFI exhibition programs include AFI FEST Presented by Canva and year-round exhibition at the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Maryland. AFI Movie Club is a destination for movie lovers from around the world to celebrate and engage with the art form every day. Other pioneering programs include workshops aimed at elevating emerging storytellers and technology, including AFI DWW+ and the AFI Cinematography Intensive Workshop. Read about all of these programs and more at AFI.com and follow us on social media at Facebook.com/AmericanFilmInstitute, YouTube.com/AFI, X.com/AmericanFilm, TikTok.com/@americanfilminstitute and Instagram.com/AmericanFilmInstitute.
About AFI FEST
Now in its 39th year, AFI FEST is a world-class event, showcasing the best films from across the globe. This year’s edition takes place in Los Angeles from October 22-26, 2025. With an innovative slate of programming, the five-day festival presents screenings, panels and conversations, featuring both master filmmakers and new cinematic voices. AFI FEST includes high-profile films with Q&As featuring the films’ cast and crew and a robust lineup of fiction and nonfiction features and shorts, providing a one-of-a-kind experience for movie fans. Additional information is available at FEST.AFI.com. Connect with AFI’s film festival at Facebook.com/AFIFEST, Twitter.com/AFIFEST, Instagram/AmericanFilmInstitute, TikTok/@AmericanFilmInstitute and YouTube.com/AFI.
About Canva
Launched in 2013, Canva is the world’s leading all-in-one platform for visual communication and collaboration. Built to empower everyone to design, the company serves the creative and design needs of enterprises, small businesses, consumers, and students in more than 190 countries worldwide. Whether you’re a novice taking your first steps in design, or a creative professional seeking powerful tools, Canva ensures users have what they need to transform an idea into something beautiful. Underpinned by the world’s most comprehensive library of designer-made content, Canva is powered by a suite of products and proprietary AI tools which elevate how individuals and teams create, collaborate, and communicate with ease.
Press contact:
American Film Institute: Shari Mesulam, shari@themesulamgroup.com
Posted by Larry Gleeson
FRANCIS FORD COPPOLA HONORED
AT 50TH AFI LIFE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD GALA TRIBUTE
Francis Ford Coppola
Robert De Niro, Harrison Ford, Morgan Freeman, Dustin Hoffman, Ron Howard, Spike Lee, George Lucas, Steven Spielberg, Al Pacino including Family Members Gia Coppola and Roman Coppola Celebrated His Legacy
Special to Premiere on TNT on June 18 at 10:00 pm ET/PT
Gala Raises Over $2.5 Million to Support
AFI’s Education Programs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, Los Angeles, CA, April 26, 2025 – The American Film Institute (AFI) presented the 50th AFI Life Achievement Award to Francis Ford Coppola on Saturday, April 26, at a Gala Tribute at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, surrounded by icons in the entertainment community. The televised special, THE AFI LIFE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD: A TRIBUTE TO FRANCIS FORD COPPOLA, will premiere on TNT on June 18 at 10:00 pm ET/PT, with an encore airing on TCM on July 31 at 8:00 pm ET/PT. This marks the 10th year the Emmy®-winning AFI Life Achievement Award special.
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 26: (L-R) George Lucas, Francis Ford Coppola and Steven Spielberg attend the 50th AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute To Francis Ford Coppola at Dolby Theatre on April 26, 2025 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Lester Cohen/Getty Images for AFI)
The evening began with welcome remarks from Bob Gazzale, AFI President and CEO, and included tributes to Coppola’s illustrious career and his influence on filmmaking from Robert De Niro, Adam Driver, Harrison Ford, Morgan Freeman, Dustin Hoffman, Ron Howard, C. Thomas Howell, Diane Lane, Spike Lee, Ralph Macchio and Al Pacino, plus family members Gia Coppola and Roman Coppola and a performance by Josh Groban of “Brucia La Terra” from THE GODFATHER, CODA: THE DEATH OF MICHAEL CORLEONE. Also included in the show were video clips of an exclusive interview, conducted by his daughter, Oscar®-winning filmmaker Sofia Coppola.
In presenting the award, Steven Spielberg, recipient of the 23rd AFI Life Achievement Award said, “you have taken what came before and redefined the canon of American film” and George Lucas, recipient of the 33rd AFI Life Achievement Award, commented, “we hoped to beat the system, and we did. We had no rules. We wrote the rules with you holding the pen. Thank you for creating an era of filmmakers that loved the movies.” Coppola accepted the award to a standing ovation. In his acceptance speech, he said, “all the beautiful faces are welcoming me back because I am and will always be nothing more than one of you.”
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 26: Francis Ford Coppola holds the 50th AFI Life Achievement Award onstage at the 50th AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute To Francis Ford Coppola at Dolby Theatre on April 26, 2025 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Lester Cohen/Getty Images for AFI)
The event also included a special remembrance of David Lynch (AFI Class of 1970) – who passed away in January of this year, and who had been the Franklin J. Schaffner Alumni Medal inaugural recipient in 1991. The medal is awarded to an Alum of either the AFI Conservatory or AFI DWW+, who best embodies the qualities of Schaffner: talent, taste, dedication and commitment to quality filmmaking.
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 26: (L-R) Steven Spielberg, Bob Gazzale, CEO, American Film Institute, Francis Ford Coppola and George Lucas attend the 50th AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute To Francis Ford Coppola at Dolby Theatre on April 26, 2025 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Anna Webber/Getty Images for AFI)
The event concluded with attendees receiving an exclusive AFI commemorative tribute book about Coppola’s career. Guests were also introduced to the new online tribute site chronicling Coppola’s life and career at http://AFI.com/coppola.
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 26: Gia Coppola attends the 50th AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute To Francis Ford Coppola at Dolby Theatre on April 26, 2025 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Anna Webber/Getty Images for AFI)
Over $2.5 million raised at the AFI Life Achievement Award Gala will support educational programs at the American Film Institute, a nonprofit organization. To donate to AFI, visit AFI.com/support.
The AFI Life Achievement Award, established by the AFI Board of Trustees in 1973, is presented to a single honoree each year based on the following criteria as mandated through a resolution passed by the AFI Board of Trustees: “The recipient should be one whose talent has in a fundamental way advanced the film art; whose accomplishment has been acknowledged by scholars, critics, professional peers and the general public; and whose work has stood the test of time.”
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 26: Diane Lane speaks onstage at the 50th AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute To Francis Ford Coppola at Dolby Theatre on April 26, 2025 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Lester Cohen/Getty Images for AFI)
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 26: Adam Driver speaks onstage during the 50th AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute To Francis Ford Coppola at Dolby Theatre on April 26, 2025 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Lester Cohen/Getty Images for AFI)
GALLERY PHOTOS
The official sponsor of the 50th AFI Life Achievement Award Gala dinner was Canva, the all-in-one visual communication platform. The official water sponsor was FIJI Water.
AFI Life Achievement Award Recipients
1973 John Ford
1974 James Cagney
1975 Orson Welles
1976 William Wyler
1977 Bette Davis
1978 Henry Fonda
1979 Alfred Hitchcock
1980 James Stewart
1981 Fred Astaire
1982 Frank Capra
1983 John Huston
1984 Lillian Gish
1985 Gene Kelly
1986 Billy Wilder
1987 Barbara Stanwyck
1988 Jack Lemmon
1989 Gregory Peck
1990 David Lean
1991 Kirk Douglas
1992 Sidney Poitier
1993 Elizabeth Taylor
1994 Jack Nicholson
1995 Steven Spielberg
1996 Clint Eastwood
1997 Martin Scorsese
1998 Robert Wise
1999 Dustin Hoffman
2000 Harrison Ford
2001 Barbra Streisand
2002 Tom Hanks
2003 Robert De Niro
2004 Meryl Streep
2005 George Lucas
2006 Sean Connery
2007 Al Pacino
2008 Warren Beatty
2009 Michael Douglas
2010 Mike Nichols
2011 Morgan Freeman
2012 Shirley MacLaine
2013 Mel Brooks
2014 Jane Fonda
2015 Steve Martin
2016 John Williams
2017 Diane Keaton
2018 George Clooney
2019 Denzel Washington
2022 Julie Andrews
2024 Nicole Kidman
Learn more at AFI.com.
About the American Film Institute (AFI)
The American Film Institute (AFI) is a nonprofit organization with a mandate to champion the moving image as an art form. Established in 1967, AFI launched the first comprehensive history of American film and sparked the movement for film preservation in the United States. In 1969, AFI opened the doors of the AFI Conservatory, a graduate-level program to train narrative filmmakers. The Conservatory, which counts Deniese Davis, Affonso Gonçalves, Susannah Grant, Matthew Libatique, David Lynch, Melina Matsoukas and Rachel Morrison as Alumni, is ranked as one of the top film schools in America. AFI’s enduring traditions include the AFI Life Achievement Award, which honors the masters for work that has stood the test of time; AFI AWARDS, which celebrates the creative ensembles of the most outstanding screen stories of the year; and scholarly efforts such as the AFI Catalog of Feature Films and the AFI Archive that preserve film history for future generations. AFI exhibition programs include AFI FEST Presented by Canva and year-round exhibition at the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Maryland. AFI Movie Club is a destination for movie lovers from around the world to celebrate and engage with the art form every day. Other pioneering programs include workshops aimed at elevating emerging storytellers and technology, including AFI DWW+ and the AFI Cinematography Intensive Workshop. Read about all of these programs and more at AFI.com and follow AFI on social media at:
Facebook.com/
About TNT
TNT, a Warner Bros. Discovery brand, is watched by more people than any other cable network and known for big, lean-forward television that takes viewers on a thrill ride of electrifying stories, dynamic characters and premium events. TNT is home to some of television’s most popular sports franchises and scripted originals including “The Librarians: The Next Chapter.” TNT also presents primetime specials and sports coverage, including the NHL, NBA and NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championships. Website:www.tntdrama.com
About Turner Classic Movies (TCM)
Turner Classic Movies(TCM) is a two-time Peabody Award-winning network that presents classic films, uncut and commercial-free, from the largest film libraries in the world highlighting “Where Then Meets Now.” TCM features insights from Primetime host Ben Mankiewicz along with hosts Alicia Malone, Dave Karger, Jacqueline Stewart and Eddie Muller, plus interviews with a wide range of special guests and serves as the ultimate movie lover destination. With three decades as a leading authority in classic film, TCM offers critically acclaimed series like The Essentials and Reframed along with annual programming events like 31 Days of Oscar® and Summer Under the Stars. TCM also directly connects with movie fans through popular events such as the annual TCM Classic Film Festival in Hollywood and the TCM Classic Cruise. In addition, TCM produces the wildly successful podcast “The Plot Thickens.” TCM hosts a wealth of material online attcm.comand through the Watch TCM mobile app. Fans can also enjoy a classic movie experience on the TCM hub on Max.
Press contact:
American Film Institute
Shari Mesulam, Shari@themesulamgroup.com
Posted by Larry Gleeson
2025 TCM Classic Film Festival Reveals Additional Star-Studded Guests: Michael Mann, Rob Reiner, Kathy Bates, Aaron Sorkin and More to Attend
New York, NY – April 3, 2025 – Turner Classic Movies (TCM) today announced additional talent and programming for this year’s 16th annual TCM Classic Film Festival running April 24 – 27, 2025 in Hollywood, including a Closing Night 30th anniversary special screening of 1995’s epic crime drama Heat, in conversation with director Michael Mann. In addition to previously announced titles, the festival line-up will also include:
For the first time since the 1950s, the TCM Classic Film Festival, in collaboration with Paramount Pictures, will host screenings of VistaVision films. Unlike standard 35mm film, which runs vertically through the camera, VistaVision shoots the negative horizontally, exposing the image across two 35mm frames. Using VistaVision projectors specifically installed for the festival, TCM will showcase two rare VistaVision prints: Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1957) and We’re No Angels (1955) and will feature this year’s Academy-award winning cinematographer Lol Crawley. These screenings present an exceptionally rare opportunity to see VistaVision as it was meant to be experienced: on the big screen, in stunning clarity and with Perspecta audio.
The festival will also be honoring the 90th anniversary of the British Film Institute’s National Archive, one of the most important film and TV collections in the world. Titles presented by the BFI in this celebration include Blithe Spirit (with an introduction from Christine Ebersole), Edge of the City, Mildred Pierce (a rare original 1945 nitrate release print), the premiere of new 35mm prints of To Be or Not To Be and The Private Life of Henry VIII (with an introduction by BFI Head of Conservation Kieron Webb), plus Jaws (a pristine original 1975 Technicolor dye-transfer British release print, with a special appearance by Lorraine Gary.) The treasures in the BFI National Archive’s will also be showcased in a special in conversation event as part of Club TCM, titled Across the Pond: Sights & Sounds of the British Film Institute to dive into the BFI’s archive with their CEO, Ben Roberts.
Not to be missed Club TCM Presentations will include:
Conversation with Michael Schultz
The TCM Classic Film Festival is proud to pay tribute to the work of prolific and award-winning director and producer Michael Schultz. A veteran of stage, film and television, Schultz has created memorable works for decades, working longer than any other African-American director. From films like Cooley High (1975) and the Cannes award-winning CAR WASH (1976) to television, from Starsky and Hutch and The Rockford Files to Ally McBeal and Black-ish, his talents have shone in multiple productions. Schultz also has an eye for new talent, casting Al Pacino in his first Broadway play, Does a Tiger Wear a Necktie?, winning the actor a Tony Award, and also cast Denzel Washington and Samuel L. Jackson in their first feature films. Join TCM for an in-depth conversation with Michael Schultz about his remarkable career and life.
Fantastic Footage and Where to Find It: Surprise and Delights from the
World’s Film Archives
“Just when I thought I’d seen it all…” That familiar phrase might come to mind in this one-of-a-kind presentation. Among the millions of film and video works collected within the world’s archives, there exists an unseen tapestry of remarkable, astonishing and often unseen gems found on a multitude of sources—film and video formats of all shapes and sizes. From film fragments, blooper reels and outtakes, home movies, extraordinary commercials, even local news footage, and some things that just defy explanation, this curated presentation will reveal curious and eclectic wonders tucked away within the globe’s vast archival holdings.
In Attendance: Brittan Dunham and Ashley Swinnerton
From Here to Eternity: A Visit to the Final Resting Places of Hollywood’s Legends
Movies, by their nature, are intangible and ghostly projections conjured out of roughly equal portions of light and personality. So, it’s fitting that our favorite stars usually leave us with very little physical evidence of their existence – beyond their final resting places that is. Join renowned film historians and celebrity-cemetery sleuths Karie Bible and Steven Bingen for this all-access, whirlwind virtual tour of Hollywood’s most famous celebrity gravesites, many of which are as mysterious, inspirational, and eccentric as the legends they commemorate. Filled with personal stories, historic and contemporary photos and explicit directions about how you can find and visit scores of celebrity graves yourself, this reverent/irreverent presentation is a must for anyone interested in connecting the dots, and the last dot in particular, behind the lives of those fascinating faces on the screen.
In attendance: Karie Bible, Steven Bingen.
The full 2025 TCM Classic Film Festival Programming Schedule of films, participating talent, special talks and presentations are now available. For all information, please visit http://tcm.com/festival.
About 2025 TCM Classic Film Festival
Movie lovers from around the globe will descend upon Hollywood for the 16th edition of the TCM Classic Film Festival, set to take place Thursday, April 24 – Sunday, April 27, 2025. Over four packed days and nights, attendees will be treated to an extensive lineup of great movies, appearances by legendary stars and filmmakers, fascinating presentations and panel discussions, special events, and more.
TCM Primetime Host Ben Mankiewicz will serve as official host of the TCM Classic Film Festival, alongside Jacqueline Stewart, Dave Karger, Alicia Malone, and Eddie Muller.
The festival’s official hotel and central gathering point will be The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, which has a longstanding role in movie history and was the site of the first Academy Awards® ceremony. The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel will also offer special rates for Festival attendees. Screenings and events during the festival will be held at the TCL Chinese Theatre IMAX®, the TCL Chinese 6 Theatres, the Egyptian Theatre, and a return to the historic El Capitan Theatre.
This year’s festival theme is “Grand Illusions: Fantastic Worlds on Film.For the latest news and information, follow on social media at #TCMFF.
About Turner Classic Movies (TCM)
Turner Classic Movies (TCM) is a two-time Peabody Award-winning network that presents classic films, uncut and commercial-free, from the largest film libraries in the world highlighting “Where Then Meets Now.” TCM features insights from Primetime host Ben Mankiewicz along with hosts Alicia Malone, Dave Karger, Jacqueline Stewart and Eddie Muller, plus interviews with a wide range of special guests and serves as the ultimate movie lover destination. With three decades as a leading authority in classic film, TCM offers critically acclaimed series like The Essentials and Reframed along with annual programming events like 31 Days of Oscar® and Summer Under the Stars. TCM also directly connects with movie fans through popular events such as the annual TCM Classic Film Festival in Hollywood and the TCM Classic Cruise. In addition, TCM produces the wildly successful podcast “The Plot Thickens,” which has had more than 9 million downloads to date. TCM hosts a wealth of material online at tcm.com and through the Watch TCM mobile app. Fans can also enjoy a classic movie experience on the TCM hub on Max.
Posted by Larry Gleeson
Canadian Auteur Director David Cronenberg’s latest fare, The Shrouds, debuted in competition at Cannes, made its LA Premiere during the American Film Institute’s 2024 AFI FEST in Hollywood, Calif., Thursday, October 24, 2024, at the TCL Chinese Theatres. AFI FEST Programmer Malkin Kahn thanked the AFI FEST sponsors, community partners, the audience, festival volunteers, and “Elma” before introducing the film. Kahn eloquently delivered a few intimate details of the film such as Cronenberg’s impetus was John Donne’s poem, “A Valediction: of Weeping.”
According to the Poetry Foundation) “…Donne’s predilection for intricate rhetorical figures, paradoxes, surprising swerves in tone, associative leaps, and ingenious conceits can make them feel artificial, or made of artifice.” Cronenberg’s The Shrouds, follows a similar arc vacillating between the real and the surreal, swerving in tone with associative leaps and his use of ingenious conceits, that not only makes it feel artificial (futuristic) but deeply visceral.
Cronenberg opens the film with an ethereal prologue of an image of some sort of protoplasm floating in the ether. From a brilliantly executed match cut leads the viewer into the real world of Karsh (Vincent Cassel), the film’s protagonist, and his mouth. Karsh is in the dental chair. His dentist has diagnosed Karsh with tooth decay caused by grief. The empathic dentist fixes Karsh up on a blind date with an attractive woman who closely resembles his deceased wife. His date is mortified when Karsh meets his date at a restaurant in the cemetery next to the Grave Tech burial plots. Karsh feels the need to take his date outside for a private viewing of his Grave Tech creation. These early events set the tone of the film and the audience reaction almost overwhelmingly energetic.
The film’s plot revolves around Karsh – a likely stand-in for Cronenberg himself. Karsh is a prominent businessman, inconsolable since the death of his loving wife (Diane Kruger). Karsh’s invention of Grave Tech, a revolutionary and controversial technology enables the living to monitor their dear departed on a live-stream feed via a radioactive shroud that could have been designed by YSL. One-night, multiple graves at the Grave Tech burial grounds, including that of Karsh’s wife (Diane Kruger), are desecrated.
The grave crime sets in motion the theoretical details present In “The becoming-body of David Cronenberg’s characters,” published by Editor da PUCRS, Rosangela Fachel de Medeiros, describes “the extreme and visceral way…David Cronenberg, a Canadian filmmaker, presents and investigates, in his films, the human body and the sexuality, and what social, cultural and artistic issues involved in this representation as evidence of the potential transformation of the body resulting from biotech advents and interaction with other bodies through violence or sex.”
Naturally, any thriller needs conspiracies, and The Shrouds has several involving the Russians, the Chinese, Karsh’s techie brother-in-law (played by Guy Pearce), the environmental movement based out of Iceland, his wife’s physician who also was his wife’s ex-beau, and the role of an angel Hungarian investor and his incredibly seductive wife (portrayed by Sandrine Holt. However, one conspiracy involving Maury and his wife leads to a desperate and wanton coupling between Karsh and Maury’s wife who is also Karsh’s dead wife’s sister (also portrayed by Kruger). This is where the plot really heats up, literally and figuratively, and begins reconciling the film’s various themes of grief, religion, technology, espionage, capitalism, and environmentalism.
With an enthralling runtime of one hour and fifty-six minutes, The Shrouds is a wild ride steeped in absurdist, wet-dream-like surrealism. The film boasts a formidable and talented cast with Vincent Cassel, Diane Kruger, Guy Pearce and Sandrine Holt, reinforcing Cronenberg’s cinematic vision. Howard Shore’s musical score brings the film home.
Fans of Cronenberg’s work will know how fortunate they all are to have the 81-year-old filmmaker making a second film after his “retirement” announcement at Cannes in 2014. Saint Laurent, the production arm of Yves Saint Laurent, financed and co-produced this riveting flick with SBS Productions, and Prospero Pictures. Other notable Cronenberg films include, The Fly (1986), Crash (1996), A History of Violence (2005), Eastern Promises (2007), Maps to the Stars (2014), and Crimes of the Future (2022).
Highly recommended viewing. The Shrouds is slated for a Spring 2025 theatrical release – no pun intended.
Posted by Larry Gleeson
AFI FEST 2024 PRESENTED BY CANVA
ANNOUNCES SPONSORS AND PARTNERS
FESTIVAL TO PRESENT OVER 150 FILMS
OPENS ON WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23
Tickets and Passes Available Online and at AFI FEST Box Office During Festival
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Los Angeles, CA, October 21, 2024 — The American Film Institute (AFI) announced today the sponsors and partners for AFI FEST 2024 presented by Canva. This year’s festival runs from October 23 through October 27 in Hollywood and the festival lineup includes 6 Red Carpet Premieres, 12 Special Screenings, 13 Luminaries selections, 15 Discovery films, 12 World Cinema selections, 14 Documentaries, 4 After Dark titles, 54 films in the Short Film Competition, and 28 films from the AFI Conservatory Showcase. There are 4 World Premieres, 6 North American Premieres and 7 U.S. Premieres.
Passes and tickets are available at FEST.AFI.com and at the AFI FEST Box Office located inside the TCL Chinese 6 Theatres Lobby during the festival. Sold-out screenings, including Red Carpet Premieres, will have a rush line.
Canva is this year’s Presenting Sponsor and additional Corporate Partners for AFI FEST 2024 presented by Canva are Official Water Partner FIJI Water, Premium Sponsor Apple Original Films, AMC Networks, First Entertainment Credit Union, Amazon MGM Studios and Netflix. AMC Networks is presenting this year’s AFI Conservatory Showcase scheduled for October 25.
This year’s In-Kind Sponsors include Panavision, Illuminar, Eventive, Ovation Hollywood, TCL Chinese Theatres, US Blanks, Cinegear and SirReel.
The Envelope by The Los Angeles Times is back as the festival’s Primary Media Partner and the Red Carpet Premieres Media Partner.
The Wall Street Journal, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter and ABC7 On the Red Carpet are Official Media Partners.
Affiliate Media Partners include TheWrap, IndieWire, Screen International and KCRW.
The Official Media Partners and Affiliate Media Partners will each be presenting a dedicated Special Screening. The Wall Street Journal will present THE ORDER, Variety will present THE ROOM NEXT DOOR, The Hollywood Reporter will present SEPTEMBER 5, ABC7 On the Red Carpet will present NIGHTBITCH, TheWrap will present THE FIRE INSIDE, IndieWire will present I’M STILL HERE, Screen International will present BIRD and KCRW will present NICKEL BOYS.
This year’s Cultural Supporters include the European Languages and Movies in America (ELMA), SAGindie, Farhang Foundation, Japan House LA, Quebec Government Office, Spain Arts Villa Albertine, Consulate General of France in Los Angeles, Istituto Luce Cinecittà, Instituto Italiano de Cultura LA, Consulate General of Italy, Italian Trade Agency and Embassy of Spain.
This year’s Community Partners are African American Film Critics Association, Amoeba Music, Armenian Film Society, Asian American Media Alliance, Asian Pacific Filmmakers Experience, Black Film Space, CAPE (Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment), Canadians Abroad, Cervantes of Los Angeles, Embassy of Spain, Film Fatales, Ghetto Film School, Goethe-Institut Los Angeles Association, Gold House, Greek LA Film Festival, Hollywood Brazilian Film Festival, Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles, International Documentary Association, Japan Consulate, LA Filmforum, Lobos Boxing Club, Los Angeles Greek Film Festival, Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival, MENA Arts Advocacy Coalition, NALIP (National Association of Latino Producers), New Filmmakers of LA, Queer Film LA, Rumble Boxing Gym West Hollywood, Science & Entertainment Exchange, South East European Film Festival, Trans Film Center, USC Center for Enthographic Media Arts, USC Women of Cinematic Arts, Visual Communications Media (VC Media) and Women in Film.
As previously announced, the festival will open with the World Premiere of MUSIC BY JOHN WILLIAMS and close with the World Premiere of Clint Eastwood’s JUROR #2. Other Red Carpet Premieres section highlights include HERETIC starring Hugh Grant, the World Premiere of Robert Zemeckis’ HERE as the Centerpiece Screening, MARIA starring Angelina Jolie and the World Premiere of WALLACE & GROMIT: VENGEANCE MOST FOWL. On Thursday, October 24, AFI will honor Robert Zemeckis with a Directors Spotlight, featuring an in-depth conversation between Zemeckis and Tom Hanks about his illustrious career. This event is free and open to the public subject to availability. Tickets must be reserved in advance and seating is not guaranteed.
To learn more about AFI FEST and to view the full festival lineup visit FEST.AFI.com
AFI is a nonprofit, donor-powered organization. Join AFI’s Premiere Circle to support the American Film Institute and enjoy access to FEST passes and exclusive one-of-a-kind opportunities at AFI FEST. To learn more, email Advancement@AFI.com.
About the American Film Institute (AFI)
The American Film Institute (AFI) is a nonprofit organization with a mandate to champion the moving image as an art form. Established in 1967, AFI launched the first comprehensive history of American film and sparked the movement for film preservation in the United States. In 1969, AFI opened the doors of the AFI Conservatory, a graduate-level program to train narrative filmmakers. The Conservatory, which counts Deniese Davis, Affonso Gonçalves, Susannah Grant, Matthew Libatique, David Lynch, Melina Matsoukas and Rachel Morrison as Alumni, is ranked as one of the top film school in America. AFI’s enduring traditions include the AFI Life Achievement Award, which honors the masters for work that has stood the test of time; AFI AWARDS, which celebrates the creative ensembles of the most outstanding screen stories of the year; and scholarly efforts such as the AFI Catalog of Feature Films and the AFI Archive that preserve film history for future generations. AFI exhibition programs include AFI FEST presented by Canva and year-round exhibition at the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Maryland. AFI Movie Club is a destination for movie lovers from around the world to celebrate and engage with the art form every day. Other pioneering programs include workshops aimed at increasing diversity in the storytelling community, including AFI DWW+ and the AFI Cinematography Intensive for Women. Read about all of these programs and more at AFI.com and follow us on social media at Facebook.com/
About AFI FEST presented by Canva
Now in its 38th year, AFI FEST presented by Canva is a world-class event, showcasing the best films from across the globe. This year’s edition takes place in Los Angeles from October 23-27, 2024. With an innovative slate of programming, the five-day festival presents screenings, panels and conversations, featuring both master filmmakers and new cinematic voices. AFI FEST presented by Canva includes high-profile films with Q&As featuring the films’ cast and crew and a robust lineup of fiction and nonfiction features and shorts, providing a one-of-a-kind experience for movie fans. Additional information is available at FEST.AFI.com. Connect with AFI’s film festival at Facebook.com/AFIFEST, Twitt
About Canva
Launched in 2013, Canva is a free online visual communications and collaboration platform with a mission to empower everyone in the world to design. Featuring a simple drag-and-drop user interface and a vast range of templates ranging from presentations, documents, websites, social media graphics, posters, apparel to videos, plus a huge library of fonts, stock photography, illustrations, video footage, and audio clips, anyone can take an idea and create something beautiful. Entertainment professionals can access resources to help them express their ideas, pitch film and TV projects, plan shoots and beyond at canva.com/entertainment.
Press contact: American Film Institute
Shari Mesulam: shari@
Posted by Larry Gleeson
The 27th edition of Dances With Films: LA returns June 20-30 with Los Angeles’ largest indie film-focused film festival. Adding a new co-presenting partnership with Outfest for additional LGBTQIA+ programming, a beefed-up Midnight Horror and Genre section, as well as continuing the celebration of music, dance, and family friendly programming in the Downbeat and Kidz sections, DWF: LA is set to deliver its most robust film schedule DWF has produced to date. That packed schedule will be bookended by the world premieres of Mahesh Pailoor’s heartfelt drama Paper Flowers as the Opening Night selection and Terre Weisman’s Max Dagan on Closing Night. All screenings will take place at the TCL Chinese Theatre (6925 Hollywood Blvd).
Make no mistake about it, Dances With Films truly is a “discovery” film festival. Yes, there is the occasional former Oscar nominee in the mix, but no – there are no “name” directors, per se. As opposed to some major market film festivals where several famous directors could dress up a home movie and it would still get programmed, DWF brings top fresh talent from all over the world to L.A. in droves.
And Dances With Films: LA (which we must specify now because they also have a very successful NYC version) is sitting on top of the film festival heap as the largest in Los Angeles. If you had ever attended DWF the past couple of years and been in the Chinese Theatre lobby, you’d see crowds to rival anything at any other big market fest. Seriously, it’s crazy in terms of the number of people filing into (often sold out) screenings, scores of filmmakers doing photos and interviews on their orange (red) carpets, and some man or woman on a microphone/bullhorn trying to direct them all. It’s a “scene”.
All this comes at a time when several stalwart/larger fests across the country are struggling and very close to closing shop. However, Dances With Films is thriving and offering a prime example and template as to how film festivals can continue to grow, be relevant, usher in the next generation of filmmakers, and compete with multiplex films when it comes to putting butts in seats by creating an exciting film going experience for all audiences (not just the hardcore indie cinephiles).
Look at these numbers: Among DWF: LA’s lineup of 232 films, including 38 narrative features, 17 documentary features, 25 television and streaming pilots, and 152 short films (101 narrative and 20 documentaries, 13 KIdz section, 18 Downbeat/Music), are an impressive number of films (117!) making world, international, North American, or U.S. premieres. That number includes 24 narrative features, 10 documentary features, 69 narrative shorts, 22 documentary shorts (including Downbeat), and 15 pilots which will have world premiere screenings at the Chinese Theater this week and next.
Thursday, June 20 features the World Premiere Opening Night presentation of Mahesh Pailoor’s Paper Flowers. Based on a true story, the film follows the poignant and inspirational journey of an ambitious USC graduate whose dream of making a difference as a Peace Corps volunteer is halted by a cancer diagnosis. Forced to return home and undergo treatment, he is immediately faced with the question “What is the true meaning of life when faced with limited time?” The international cast includes Kapil Talwalkar, Olivia Liang, Karan Soni, Faran Tahir, Meera Simhan, and Tom Everett Scott.
Additional narrative feature films making their world premieres are Nida Chowdhry’s surreal dark comedy Anxious. about a woman whose anxiety attack sends her down a rabbit hole where she meets versions of herself who take over her life. Verner Maldonado’s dark comedy Best Man Dead Man takes place during a bachelor party in the middle of nowhere which quickly turns into a night of murder and mystery when the best man ends up with a knife in his head. Everyone is a suspect and only an eccentric private eye can solve the crime. Kerry Ann Enright’s Nobody Wants to Shoot a Woman is a stark, intimate, yet unsentimental portrait of a mother marginalized by society who embraces a violent crime spree as a means to survive. Another title to look for will be Stimson Snead’s Tim Travers & The Time Travelers Paradox. Making its Southern California premiere, the Sci-Fi comedy is about a reclusive mad scientist who creates a time machine to kill his younger self to create the paradox over his ability to exist in a mission to stand alone with God at the end of time and tell the bastard off. The film features a cast of favorites including Samuel Dunning, Felicia Day, Joel McHale, Danny Trejo, and Keith David.
On the LGBTQIA+ programming front, David Beck and Jennifer Bobbi’s Regarding Us is an Outfest co-presented selection about a transgender woman who has a profound impact on the lives of two children after losing her teaching career. Nayip Anthony Garcia’s Almost Popular follows two high school juniors who go on a quest to fulfill their dream to become part of the elite POP Girls who rule the school. Parker Brennon’s queer horror anthology Hauntology is framed by a young woman taking her 12-year-old sister with runaway aspirations (on a journey around town, where she tells supernatural tales in which characters have more in common with the youngster than they first realize.
Once again, Dances With Films will please fans of horror and genre fare with its Midnight section of films led by four features making their world premieres. In Kevin Mix’s Death Perception, a group of college students at a screening party for a short film made by an aspiring filmmaker begin to get picked off one by one by a mysterious masked killer. Matt Warren’s Delicate Arch centers on four young friends who take a camping trip to Southern Utah in order to escape an ecological disaster. Alone in the desert, they soon realize they’re being observed by a mysterious cosmic force. Jeff Wolfe’s psychological thriller Mourning Rock stars Billy Burke as a state park ranger who, along with his wife, struggles to come to terms with their missing teenage son while dealing with a local mystery that questions their relationship. Craig Ouellette’s Straight On Till Morning follow a young couple falling for each other on a romantic road-trip — until they cross paths with a pious couple who have something much, much darker in mind.
Highlights among the feature-length documentaries making world premieres include Sarah Schoellkopf, Jayson McNamara, Francisco Villa, and Melissa Daniels Norita, Executive produced by Jane Fonda, the film takes viewers on a gripping journey through Argentina’s tumultuous history, where Norita’s personal tragedy becomes a catalyst for change. Featured in the Downbeat section, and filmed almost entirely on iPhones, Eryl Cochran’s Dance As You Are is a playful documentary following 100 strangers from around Los Angeles as they come together to form adult dance teams for a recital. Razieme Iborra’s How the West Was One focuses on three unconventional cowgirls as they reshape our vision of the American West. Rebecca Corry’s Saving Jones looks at the filmmaker’s dedication to educating, advocating, and saving the lives of pit bulls, who are arguably the most abused, discriminated against and murdered dogs on earth. Oscar-winner Bill Guttentag’s latest, Spyral, tells the tragic true story of the toll that bipolarism and drug abuse takes on a woman’s life and her family via a decade of home videos, diaries, and social media.
Notable in the film festival world for the screening and promotion of television, web series pilots, and episodics, Dances With Films also has a healthy number of world premieres in this section.Elizabeth Cox and Kirill Yeretsky’s animated entry Ada focuses on the title character as she heads to the first day of her new job at the public library. She’s got A LOT on her mind, but soon realizes her daily reality–mundane duties, grumpy boss–is completely at odds with the urgency she feels about the pressing problems facing humanity. Dave Seger’s George of Tujunga introduces us to a small-town moron who has his perfectly meaningless life upended when his eight-year-old niece shows up at his door with nowhere else to go. Jason Lee Courson’s Seeking… centers on the growing pains of becoming a “chosen family” when three roommates (2 gay men, 1 straight man) all from different backgrounds, learn to cohabitate and navigate love and life in the big city. Brian Wallace and James Longley’s World Twistories explores eccentric people and their offbeat ideas throughout history. Presented by Tik-Tok sensation Paul Longley, the pilot episode looks at a coffee shop that opened in London in 1703 where you were required to speak Latin to get your coffee.
Along with a lineup of films overflowing with invention and innovation, Dances With Films’ short films also are spiced with several recognizable faces and names, including Russell Goldman’s Burn Out, which is executive produced by Jamie Lee Curtis and stars Tommie Earl Jenkins (Wednesday), Eli Vidis Newman’s Concrete, which stars four-time Oscar nominee Ed Harris, Kestrin Pantera’s Dr. No Means No, which stars comedy duo The Sklar Brothers, and Breeda Wool (The Walking Dead), Mike Harris’ Mecánica, which stars Haley Joel Osment, and Olivia Sandoval (Fargo), and Danny Farber’s Thoughts and Prayers, which is executive produced by Amy Poehler.
PRESS CONTACT:
Posted by Larry Gleeson
From Special Screenings and international Oscar® submissions to captivating short films and powerful documentaries, tickets to AFI FEST 2022 will be available to purchase starting today, October 12 at 11:00 a.m. PT. Check out the film guide and full festival schedule now.
I have several films on my “must-see” list featured below. Stay tuned as the American Film Institute has combined AFI FEST and AFI DOCS this year in what is shaping up to be a spectacular showcase of film and cinema!
ALCARRAS
ALCARRAS – In Spain’s official Oscar® submission and the second feature from Carla Simón (SUMMER 1993, AFI FEST 2017), the close-knit Solé family, nestled in the rural village of Alcarràs, experiences an eventful summer when the livelihood of their peach orchard is threatened.
THE VOLCANO: RESCUE FROM WHAKAARI
In 2019, a volcano erupted on Whakaari in New Zealand without warning, raining down rocks and debris, and enveloping the island in a quiet, dark cloud of burning-hot steam. As the debris settled and onlookers gasped from the opposite shore, a rescue mission stirred into action; 47 tourists were trapped on the island, and another boat of tourists was just returning, having narrowly escaped. In this unbelievable new documentary from Academy Award® nominee Rory Kennedy (LAST DAYS IN VIETNAM, AFI FEST 2014), rescuers and survivors each recount their own version of the worst day of their lives, sharing what it means to cling to hope and life and to make impossible choices.
WOMEN TALKING
Adapted from Miriam Toews’ acclaimed novel and based on real events, Academy Award®-nominated director Sarah Polley (STORIES WE TELL) tells the riveting story of a tight-knit group of women who are part of an isolated religious community with an epidemic of sexual abuse. In the wake of this horrific discovery, they must decide to forgive their attackers or leave the colony forever. Shifting the lens away from the heinous crime and onto its ramifications sets the stage for a nuanced yet incisive examination of patriarchal oppression, religious imperatives, and conflicting values. Featuring a formiddable ensemble cast including Rooney Mara, Claire Foy, Jessie Buckley, and Frances McDormand.
The complete AFI FEST program includes 125 titles (7 Red Carpet Premieres, 6 Special Screenings, 12 Discovery, 12 World Cinema, 12 Documentary, 30 Short Film Competition, 43 AFI Conservatory and 3 Guest Artistic Director Selections). Of the official selections, 53% are directed by women, 32% are directed by BIPOC filmmakers and 11% are directed by LGBTQIA+ filmmakers. This year’s program represents 31 countries and includes six International Feature Oscar® submissions, ALCARRÀS (Spain), BARDO, FALSE CHRONICLE OF A HANDFUL OF TRUTHS (Mexico), CLOSE (Belgium), EO (Poland), JOYLAND (Pakistan) and SAINT OMER (France).
Returning filmmakers to AFI FEST include Lucien Castaing-Taylor (DE HUMANI CORPORIS FABRICA), Guillermo del Toro (GUILLERMO DEL TORO’S PINOCCHIO), Alice Diop (SAINT OMER), Quentin Dupieux (SMOKING CAUSES COUGHING/FUMER FAIT TOUSSER), Alain Gomis (REWIND & PLAY), Sam Green (32 SOUNDS), Luca Guadagnino (BONES AND ALL), Kristy Guevara-Flanagan (BODY PARTS), Mark Gustafson (GUILLERMO DEL TORO’S PINOCCHIO), Mia Hansen-Løve (ONE FINE MORNING/UN BEAU MATIN), Joanna Hogg (THE ETERNAL DAUGHTER), Alejandro González Iñárritu (BARDO, FALSE CHRONICLE OF A HANDFUL OF TRUTHS), Nikyatu Jusu (NANNY), Rory Kennedy (THE VOLCANO: RESCUE FROM WHAKAARI), Léa Mysius (THE FIVE DEVILS), Andrea Pallaoro (MONICA), Hlynur Pálmason (GODLAND/VANSKABTE LAND/VOLAÐA LAND), Jafar Panahi (NO BEARS), Verena Paravel (DE HUMANI CORPORIS FABRICA), Alice Rohrwacher (LE PUPILLE), Hong Sang-soo (WALK UP), Albert Serra (PACIFICTION), Carla Simón (ALCARRÀS), Jerzy Skolimowski (EO), Chris Smith (“SR.”), Steven Spielberg (THE FABELMANS) and Florian Zeller (THE SON).
AFI FEST 2022 will take place exclusively in person in Los Angeles from November 2-6. AFI members receive discounts on passes and tickets and other exclusive benefits. To become an AFI member, visit AFI.com/join/.
The World Premiere of Apple Original Film’s SELENA GOMEZ: MY MIND AND ME will open the festival and the U.S. premiere of Universal Pictures’ and Amblin Entertainment’s THE FABELMANS, directed by AFI Life Achievement Award recipient and Academy Award®-winning director Steven Spielberg, will close AFI FEST 2022. Additional Red Carpet Premieres include BARDO, FALSE CHRONICLE OF A HANDFUL OF TRUTHS, directed by Academy Award®-winning director Alejandro González Iñárritu; the U.S. Premiere of GUILLERMO DEL TORO’S PINOCCHIO, directed by Academy Award®-winning director Guillermo del Toro and Emmy Award® winner Mark Gustafson; LIVING, directed by Oliver Hermanus; SHE SAID, directed by Emmy Award®-winning director Maria Schrader; and THE SON, directed by Academy Award® winner Florian Zeller. Academy Award®-nominated filmmaker Ava DuVernay will serve as Guest Artistic Director at AFI FEST 2022 and will be showcasing three independent films amplifying the voices of women directors including HELLION (2014), directed by Kat Candler and starring Academy Award®-nominee Juliette Lewis and Aaron Paul; MOSQUITA Y MARI (2012) directed by Aurora Guerrero and YELLING TO THE SKY (2011), directed by Victoria Mahoney and starring Academy Award®-nominee Gabourey Sidibe and Zoë Kravitz.
Harvey Keitel and Daphna Kastner – AFI FEST 2021 Red Carpet Premiere Screening of THE POWER OF THE DOG, TCL Chinese Theatre, Los Angeles, California, Nov. 11, 2021 – Photo Credit: Rob Latour/AFI/Shutterstock
RED CARPET PREMIERES
Kirsten Dunst – AFI FEST 2021 Red Carpet Premiere Screening of THE POWER OF THE DOG, TCL Chinese Theatre, Los Angeles, California, Nov. 11, 2021 – Photo Credit: Rob Latour/AFI/ShutterstockAFI rolls out the red carpet for the most anticipated films of the festival. Sure to be an exciting celebration of the best in film, the section delivers world-class filmmakers, talented actors and artisans, and a dose of Hollywood magic that can only be found at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre.
Stay tuned!
Posted by Larry Gleeson
The 13th TCM Classic Film Festival got underway with a full day of events, films, and talks. Kicking it all off was the “Meet TCM,” an event designed specifically to share staffer insight into the network, how it’s produced and what is coming up. In addition, the wildly popular, “So You Think You Know Movies,” was filled to the rafters at the Roosevelt Hotel as movie buffs and film fanatics battled it out in this fun-filled annual quiz competition headed up by Bruce Goldstein, founder of Rialto Pictures and the repertory program director of New York’s Film Forum. The Opening Night Reception this year was held poolside at the Hollywood Roosevelt. And without further adieu, the 40th anniversary of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial at the TCL Chinese Theatre IMAX officially opened the 2022 festival.
Stay tuned for Day 2 including the Lily Tomlin hand and footprint ceremony!
