Jennifer Lopez to Give Sundance 2025 Her Deadly Kiss

As a cinephile with a keen eye for international cinema and a soft spot for stories that delve into the human condition, I find myself utterly captivated by this year’s Sundance Film Festival lineup. The diverse array of films hailing from various corners of the globe promises to transport us into worlds both familiar and foreign, offering perspectives that challenge our own and expand our collective understanding.

As a fan, I find myself expressing the news that Sundance is narrowing down cities for future festivals, much like Tyra Banks on “America’s Next Top Model.” Unfortunately, it seems Atlanta won’t be crowned as Sundance’s Next Top City. However, this change won’t take place until 2027. In the interim, they have indeed made some choices regarding which films to screen in 2025. The highly anticipated Sundance Film Festival lineup was unveiled on December 11, brimming with a wealth of independent films that will undoubtedly captivate audiences over the coming year. The festival is set to take place from January 23–February 2, 2025 in its traditional home of Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah. For now, Lisa Barlow can rest easy knowing her city remains a part of the Sundance family.

In the “opening” category, some standout entries feature Jennifer Lopez in the Tony Award-winning film adaptation of “Kiss of the Spiderwoman“, and the duo Bowen Yang and Lily Gladstone in “The Wedding Banquet“. Meanwhile, in the Dramatic Competition, potential favorites based on descriptions alone include “Love, Brooklyn” starring Roy Wood Jr., who’s a favorite of Vulture, and “Sorry, Baby“, a debut film by Eva Victor that could be the long-awaited comeback of Lucas Hedges. Kim Yutani, Director of Programming, said in a statement, “This year’s program showcases stories that tackle many pressing issues, inviting us to reflect both within and without. We’re thrilled to present new voices and work from established names to our audience. Festival-goers can anticipate being surprised, amused, provoked, and emotionally moved by this year’s films.” Here is the complete list of films in the 20XX Sundance lineup.

U.S. Dramatic Competition

Atropia / USA (Directed and Written by Hailey Gates, Produced by Naima Abed, Emilie Georges, Luca Guadagnino, Lana Kim, Jett Steiger) – In a military role-playing facility, an aspiring actress finds herself drawn to a soldier portraying an insurgent. Their genuine feelings risk disrupting the simulation’s intended outcome.

“Bubble & Squeak” / International Premiere (Directed by Evan Twohy, Screenplay by Evan Twohy, Produced by Christina Oh and Steven Yeun) – Facing charges of illegally importing cabbages into a country where they are prohibited, Declan and Delores find themselves in a perilous situation, testing the limits of their relationship as they flee for survival.

Title Character: Bunnylovr (USA) – Directed and Written by Katarina Zhu, Produced by Tristan Scott-Behrends, Ani Schroeter, Rhianon Jones, Roger Mancusi, Rachel Sennott

Love, Brooklyn USA

“Journey Across America” (Directed by Cole Webley, Written by Robert Machoian, Produced by Preston Lee) – Following a family misfortune, siblings Ella and Charlie are suddenly awoken by their father and embark on an impromptu road trip cross-country. This new world they’re discovering holds secrets that gradually reveal themselves as their adventure unfolds. As Ella navigates this mystery, she starts to question the truth of her surroundings. The film stars John Magaro, Molly Belle Wright, Wyatt Solis, and Talia Balsam. This premiere is available for public viewing online.

Off-Duty (Directed and Written by Carmen Emmi; Produced by Colby Cote, Arthur Landon, Eric Podwall, Vanessa Pantley) — An undercover officer tasked with entrapment of homosexual individuals finds himself breaking ranks when he develops feelings for his target.

Title character Ricky, originally from the U.S., is directed, co-written, and produced by Rashad Frett, Lin Que Ayoung, Pierre M. Coleman, Simon TaufiQue, Sterling Brim, Josh Peters, DC Wade, and Cary Fukunaga. After spending his teenage years in prison, 30-year-old Ricky faces the struggles of adapting to life outside and the newfound responsibility of being an adult for the first time. The film is now available for public viewing online. Cast includes Stephan James, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Titus Welliver, Maliq Johnson, Imani Lewis, and Andrene Ward-Hammond. This marks its world premiere.

Apologies, Love,

Sunfish and Tales from Green Lake

Title devoid of twins: “Brothers by Chance” / U.S.A. (Director, Screenwriter, and Producer: James Sweeney, Producer: David Permut) — Two individuals who lost their twin siblings meet in a support group and unexpectedly develop a strong friendship, which they refer to as a ‘bromance’. Cast: Dylan O’Brien, James Sweeney, Lauren Graham, Aisling Franciosi, Tasha Smith, Chris Perfetti. World Premiere. Accessible online for the public.

U.S. Documentary Competition

In a film titled Andre: A Brilliant Idiot, directed by Anthony Benna, produced by Andre Ricciardi, Tory Tunnell, Joshua Altman, Stelio Kitrilakis, and Ben Cotner, the story revolves around Andre, a man who, despite his intelligence, neglected a colonoscopy that led to a serious illness. Facing his mortality with irreverence and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, he embarks on an unexpected odyssey to learn how to die happily and humorously without sacrificing his sense of humor. This film premiered worldwide and is accessible to the public online.

Exploring Life Beyond: U.S.A. (Directed by Reid Davenport, Produced by Colleen Cassingham) – In 1983, a Californian woman named Elizabeth Bouvia, who was disabled, sparked a nationwide discussion on self-determination, human dignity, and the worth of disabled lives as she petitioned for the “right to die.” After numerous courtroom battles, Bouvia faded from public attention. In this documentary, disabled filmmaker Reid Davenport guides us in uncovering the mystery surrounding Bouvia’s whereabouts. Premieres Worldwide. Accessible Online for All.

Marlee Matlin: No Longer Solo Now / U.S.A. (Director and Producer: Shoshannah Stern, Producers: Robyn Kopp, Justine Nagan, Bonni Cohen) — In the year 1987, Marlee Matlin made history as the first Deaf actor to receive an Academy Award at just 21 years old. Through her primary language of American Sign Language, Marlee delves into the intricacies of what it entails to be a pioneer. World Premiere. Available for public viewing online.

The Ideal Neighbor (U.S.A.) – Directed by Geeta Gandbhir, Produced by Nikon Kwantu, Alisa Payne, and Sam Bisbee

Titled “Predators / U.S.A.” (Directed and Produced by David Osit, Co-Produced by Jamie Gonçalves and Kellen Quinn), this documentary delved into the captivating journey of a renowned TV show that aimed to apprehend child predators. By setting up deceptive encounters on a film set, these individuals would be questioned and ultimately apprehended by law enforcement. This documentary provides an in-depth analysis of the meteoric rise and dramatic downfall of the show as well as the world it influenced. Making its world premiere online for public viewing.

Exploring Black multi-generational farmers in the Southern United States, this film titled “Seeds” (Directed by Brittany Shyne, Produced by Danielle Varga) delves into the delicate nature of heritage and the profound importance of land ownership. The premiere is worldwide and can be accessed online for public viewing.

Selena and the Dinos (USA) – Directed by Isabel Castro, Produced by Julie Goldman, Christopher Clements, J. Daniel Torres, David Blackman, Simran Singh / This movie tells the story of Selena Quintanilla, known as the “Queen of Tejano Music,” and her family band, Selena y Los Dinos. From playing at quinceañeras to selling out stadium tours, their journey is documented through previously unseen footage from the family’s personal collection. World Premiere. Accessible online for the public.

In this film titled “Speak“, directed by Jennifer Tiexiera and Guy Mossman, with Pamela Griner as producer, we follow five highly skilled high school orators as they dedicate a year to creating captivating spoken word pieces. Their ultimate goal is to emerge victorious in one of the world’s biggest and most rigorous public speaking competitions. This film premieres worldwide and can be accessed online for the public.

Sugar Babies USA

Third Act – A Father’s Journey / U.S.A. (Directed and Produced by Tadashi Nakamura, Co-Produced by Eurie Chung) – Known as the “godfather of Asian American media,” Robert A. Nakamura is fondly referred to as Dad by filmmaker Tadashi Nakamura. As Robert faces Parkinson’s disease, this documentary delves into his art, activism, sorrow, and fatherhood. World Premiere. Accessible for Public Online.

World Cinema Dramatic Competition

Fugitive Brides / U.K. (Directed by Nadia Fall, Written by Suhayla El-Bushra, Produced by Nicky Bentham and Marica Stocchi) — In an attempt to escape their troubled lives, two teenage girls devise a flawed scheme to journey to Syria in search of freedom, companionship, and acceptance. The film’s stellar cast includes Ebada Hassan, Safiyya Ingar, Yusra Warsama, Cemre Ebuzziya, and Aziz Capkurt. Making its world premiere and accessible online to the public.

DJ Ahmet / (Directed and Written by: Georgi M. Unkovski, Produced by: Ivan Unkovski, Ivana Shekutkoska) – In a secluded Yuruk village in North Macedonia, 15-year-old Ahmet seeks solace in music as he grapples with his father’s demands, traditional societal norms, and his initial feelings for a girl who is already betrothed. Starring: Arif Jakup, Agush Agushev, Dora Akan Zlatanova, Aksel Mehmet, Selpin Kerim, Atila Klince. Making its debut online for public viewing.

“The Virtual Deer’s Revelation

Sabar Bonda (Cactus Pears)

Sauna / Denmark (Director and Screenwriter: Mathias Broe, Screenwriter: William Lippert, Producer: Mads-August Hertz) — Johan lives vibrantly as a gay man in bustling Copenhagen, relishing in the city’s numerous bars, parties, and fleeting romances. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters William, a transgender individual, leading him into a profound love that challenges societal conventions regarding gender, identity, and partnerships. Starring: Magnus Juhl Andersen, Nina Rask, Dilan Amin, Klaus Tange. World Premiere. Accessible for Public Viewing Online.

Sukkwan Island (Directed and Written by Vladimir de Fontenay, Produced by Carole Scotta, Eliott Khayat, Caroline Benjo) — In the secluded Sukkwan Island off the coast of France, 13-year-old Roy decides to embark on a transformative year with his father amidst the breathtaking Norwegian fjords. Initially, this journey promises a chance for reconnection; however, it soon becomes a trial of survival as they grapple with the harsh realities of their surroundings and delve into unresolved conflicts.

The Acts You Command

Two Women / Canada (Director: Chloé Robichaud, Screenwriters and Producer: Catherine Léger, Producer: Martin Paul-Hus) — Violette is struggling with her maternity leave, while Florence grapples with depression. Both women, with their careers and families, feel unsuccessful. The first indiscretion of Florence brings a shocking revelation. When enjoyment seems distant, having an affair with a deliveryman could be a groundbreaking choice.

The Virgin of Quarry Lake

“The Origin of the Wind” / Locations: Tunisia, France, Qatar (Directed and Written by Amel Guellaty, Produced by Asma Chihoub, Karim Aitouna) – Alyssa, a defiant 19-year-old girl, along with her reserved 23-year-old friend Mehdi, employ their creativity to escape their less-than-ideal circumstances. Upon stumbling upon a potential opportunity in the southern region of Tunisia, they embark on a journey despite the hurdles that lie ahead.

World Cinema Documentary Competition

2000 meters to Andriivka, Ukraine – A journalist accompanies a Ukrainian platoon on a mission to travel a mile of heavily fortified forest and free a strategic village from Russian control amidst a failed counteroffensive. As they progress through their devastated homeland, they begin to understand that this conflict may never cease. World Premiere. Accessible online for the public.

In a Humorous Yet Heartfelt Manner: Noam Shuster Eliassi’s One-Woman Show Tackles Equality Struggles in Israel/Palestine

Breaking Traditions on Two Wheels (از دو روتور مقامات پشت سر می گذاشتن) / Iran, Germany, U.S.A., Netherlands, Qatar, Chile, Canada (Directors and Producers: Sara Khaki, Mohammadreza Eyni)

The Love Quest

“Bound by Distance

In Milan’s Niguarda public hospital, the unorthodox Dr. Bini spearheads a daring initiative, managing cases of hopeful parents undergoing in vitro fertilization and individuals exploring their gender identities through transition. He skillfully maneuvers around limitations set by a traditional administration and a ruthless market that seeks to capitalize on bodies. This groundbreaking film, directed and co-written by Gianluca Matarrese and Donatella Della Ratta, produced by Dominique Barneaud, Donatella Palermo, and Alexandre Iordachescu, made its world premiere and is now accessible to the public online.

Creating a Cultural Hub: Rebuilding a Library in Nairobi/ Kenya (Directors, Screenwriters, and Producers: Maia Lekow, Christopher King, Screenwriter: Ricardo Acosta) — Two courageous women from Nairobi embark on a mission to revitalize a library that once catered exclusively to the white population until 1958 into a bustling cultural center. During their journey, they encounter complex local politics, strive to secure funds for reconstruction, and grapple with the residual shadows of Kenya’s colonial history. World Premiere. Accessible Online for Public Viewing.

In the cities of Sudan, particularly Khartoum, a group of five individuals – a civil servant, a tea vendor, an activist, and two young scavengers – were compelled to flee their homeland due to conflict. Their dramatic tales of resilience, dreams, revolution, and war are portrayed in this film. This film premieres worldwide for the public’s viewing online.

Mr. Nobody vs Putin

Examining the Life of the U.S.A.’s Prime Minister (Directed by Michelle Walshe, Lindsay Utz; Produced by Cass Avery, Leon Kirkbeck, Gigi Pritzker, Rachel Shane, Katie Peck) – This documentary offers a glimpse into the life of Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, during her tumultuous five-year tenure and beyond. Arden’s leadership style is portrayed as transformative on a global scale. World Premiere. Accessible online for the public.

BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions / USA

In the film “By Design” (Amanda Kramer as Director and Screenwriter, Miranda Bailey, Sarah Winshall, Natalie Whalen, Jacob Agger as Producers), a character exchanges bodies with a chair, and the shift brings about a surprising preference from those around her. The cast includes Juliette Lewis, Mamoudou Athie, Melanie Griffith, Samantha Mathis, Robin Tunney, and Udo Kier. This thought-provoking drama makes its debut on various online platforms for public viewing.

To the East of the Wall, USA (Directed by: Kate Beecroft, Produced by: Lila Yacoub, Melanie Ramsayer, Shannon Moss) – Following the demise of her spouse, a defiantly spirited and tattooed horse trainer named Tabatha finds herself grappling with economic instability and lingering sorrow. Simultaneously, she offers sanctuary to a motley crew of troubled teenagers on her dilapidated ranch nestled in the Badlands. This drama unfolds as Tabatha, starring Tabatha Zimiga, Porshia Zimiga, Scoot McNairy, and Jennifer Ehle, premieres for the first time. It is a work of fiction and accessible to the public online.

Unforeseen Fate)

Title character Conor Marsh leads a solitary existence with his faithful canine companion Sandy, until an innovative, high-tech video game called OBEX enters the scene. Tragedy strikes when Sandy disappears, and as reality and the game world become intertwined, Conor embarks on a journey into the enigmatic realm of OBEX to retrieve his lost friend.

Rain Over Babel

Serious People USA

The Abandoned Investigation: Unraveling the Zodiac Killer Mystery (USA, UK) [Director and Producer: Charlie Shackleton, Producers: Catherine Bray, Anthony Ing] – In the desolate settings of parking lots, courthouses, and suburban homes – scenes synonymous with true crime but devoid of action or glamour – a filmmaker shares his unfinished Zodiac Killer documentary, delving into the depths of a genre that has reached its peak. World Premiere. Documentary. Accessible online for Public Viewing.

Premieres

Remaining Pieces of You (What’s Left of You) / Germany, Cyprus (Directed, Written, and Produced by Cherien Dabis, Produced by Thanassis Karathanos, Martin Hampel, Karim Amer) –– Following a Palestinian teenager’s confrontation with Israeli soldiers during a West Bank demonstration, his mother narrates the chain of incidents that led him to this critical juncture, starting with her grandfather’s forced relocation. The narrative unfolds from there. Cast: Cherien Dabis, Saleh Bakri, Adam Bakri, Mohammad Bakri, Maria Zreik, Muhammad Abed Elrahman. World Premiere. Fiction.

In the USA, the documentary titled “April & Amanda” (Directed by Zackary Drucker, Produced by Madison Passarelli, Douglas Banker, Alex Garinger, Noah Levy, Donovan Lovell, Stephen B. Strout) showcases two remarkable figures: April Ashley and Amanda Lear. Both women navigated their identities as transgender individuals in the public eye. While April Ashley openly embraced her history as a pioneer, Amanda Lear has kept her past concealed for many years. Their distinct journeys highlight unique yet connected legacies. This is the first time this documentary will be shown. It falls under the category of Documentary.

The Ballad of Wallis Island / U.K. (Director: James Griffiths, Screenwriters: Tom Basden, Tim Key, Producer: Rupert Majendie) –– Eccentric lottery winner, Charles, dreams of getting his favorite musicians, Mortimer-McGwyer, back together. His fantasy turns into reality when the bandmates and former lovers accept his invitation to play a private show at his home on Wallis Island. Old tensions resurface as Charles tries desperately to salvage his dream gig. Cast: Tom Basden, Tim Key, Sian Clifford, Akemnji Ndifornyen, Carey Mulligan. World Premiere. Fiction.

Visit Me Under Favorable Circumstances / U.S.A. (Director and Producer: Ryan White, Producers: Jessica Hargrave, Tig Notaro, Stef Willen) –– Two versifiers, one terminal cancer prognosis. Andrea Gibson and Megan Falley embark on an unanticipatedly humorous and emotional expedition through affection, existence, and mortality. First-time showing. Documentary.

Titled “Deaf President Now! ” in the U.S.A., directed by Nyle DiMarco, Davis Guggenheim, and produced by Jonathan King, Amanda Rohlke, and Michael Harte – this documentary takes us through a dramatic eight-day period at the world’s unique Deaf university. Four students navigate leading an enraged crowd amidst chaos, ultimately shaping history in a groundbreaking way. Premiering worldwide, this documentary is accessible online for the public to watch.

In the brink of maturity, adolescents gather at a rural folk high school situated in Arctic Norway. Stranded at the edge of civilization, they must learn to depend on themselves, their peers, and a devoted group of sled dogs as they embark on a journey of personal growth in unforeseen ways. First-time presentation. Documentary.

Fighting for Leonard Peltier’s Freedom – U.S.A. (Directors: Jesse Short Bull, David France; Producers: Jhane Myers, Paul McGuire)

Intensified Examination: USA (Directed and Produced by Sam Feder, Co-Produced by Amy Scholder and Paola Mendoza) – In the midst of a wave of anti-transgender legislation that Chase Strangio is combating in court, he also tackles media prejudice. He works to reveal how news stories shape public opinion, playing a crucial role in the struggle for transgender rights. World Premiere. Documentary. Accessible online for the Public.

If I Had Legs, I’d Run Away From You

“Jeff Buckley’s Legacy Unveiled: A Captivating Portrait

In Australia, Netherlands, and Finland, a film titled “Jimpa” was directed, written, and produced by Sophie Hyde, Matthew Cormack, Liam Heyen, Bryan Mason, and Marleen Slot. The story revolves around Hannah, who takes her nonbinary teenager, Frances, to meet their grandfather, Jim (also known as Jimpa), in Amsterdam. However, Frances wishes to stay with Jimpa for a year, prompting Hannah to reevaluate her parenting beliefs and face long-standing stories about the past. The film stars Olivia Colman, John Lithgow, and Aud Mason-Hyde. This is its world premiere, and it falls under the fiction genre.

The Spider-Kissed Man / USA (Director and Writer: Bill Condon, Producers: Barry Josephson, Tom Kirdahy, Greg Yolen) –– Valentín, a political detainee, cohabits with Molina, a man sentenced for indecent exposure in public. They forge an unconventional friendship as Molina narrates the storyline of a musical film featuring his beloved actress, Ingrid Luna.

Last Days in the Sentinel/ U.S.A. (Directed and Produced by Justin Lin, Written by Ben Ripley, Produced by Clayton Townsend, Ellen Goldsmith-Vein, Eric Robinson, Salvador Gatdula, Andrew Schneider) -– A 26-year-old man named John Allen Chau embarks on a perilous journey across the world with the goal of spreading Christianity to an isolated tribe living on North Sentinel Island. As a detective from the Andaman Islands works tirelessly to halt his actions, fearing harm may come to both Chau and the tribe, we follow this dramatic tale. Starring: Sky Yang, Radhika Apte, Naveen Andrews, Ken Leung, Toby Wallace, Ciara Bravo. World Premiere. Fictional Drama.

In the United States, a group of Librarians – led by Director Kim A. Snyder and Producers Janique L. Robillard, Maria Cuomo Cole, and Jana Edelbaum – are at the forefront of a battle for intellectual freedom. Amidst an unforeseen surge of book censorship in states like Texas and Florida, these librarians band together to become unexpected champions, standing firm on the democratic frontlines against such restrictions. This is their debut on the world stage. A documentary film.

Title Character: Lurker / USA (Directed and Written by Alex Russell, Produced by Alex Orlovsky, Duncan Montgomery, Galen Core, Charlie McDowell, Archie Madekwe) – A retail worker gains entry into the inner circle of a musician on the brink of fame. As he moves closer to the rising music sensation, access and proximity become a matter of survival.

Enchanted Fields / Argentina, U.S.A. (Directed and Written by Amalia Ulman, Produced by Alex Hughes, Eugene Kotlyarenko, Riccardo Maddalosso) –– A team from a daring media company journeys to Argentina to cover a local musician. However, their lack of skill sends them to the wrong nation instead. As the crew partners with locals to create a buzz, unforeseen bonds form as a silent health issue simmers in the background. Cast: Chloë Sevigny, Alex Wolff, Joe Apollonio, Camila del Campo, Simon Rex. First-time showing. Fictional tale.

In Middletown, U.S.A., a band of teenagers in the 1990s, guided by an unusual mentor, produced a student film that exposed a massive cover-up about toxic waste contaminating their hometown. Three decades later, they revisit this movie and grapple with the lasting impact this life-changing event had on them. This is the world premiere of a documentary.

Shake Your Groove Thing: The Origins of House Music (USA)

Hey there! As a movie enthusiast, I’d say I recently stumbled upon an intriguing title – “Iris and Isaac’s Romantic Escapade Gone Astray,” directed by the talented Sophie Brooks. This film follows the romantic weekend getaway of the characters Iris and Isaac, but things don’t go as planned. The cast includes Molly Gordon, Logan Lerman, Geraldine Viswanathan, and John Reynolds. This captivating story will have its world premiere, and it’s a work of fiction.

Peter Hujar’s Day / USA

Rebuilding America (Directed and Written by Max Walker-Silverman, Produced by Jesse Hope, Dan Janvey, Paul Mezey) – After a devastating wildfire destroys their family farm, a determined rancher looks for a path forward.

In America, Sally (the film) is directed, written, and produced by Cristina Costantini, with additional screenwriting by Tom Maroney, and production by Lauren Cioffi, Dan Cogan, and Jon Bardin. This movie tells the story of Sally Ride, who was the first American woman to travel in space. Despite her calm demeanor, there was a hidden truth about her life – she had a secret relationship with Tam O’Shaughnessy that spanned 27 years. This film unveils their concealed romance and the sacrifices they made together.

“Sly & The Family Stone – A Burden of Genius

The Feathered Creature / U.K. (Director and Writer: Dylan Southern; Producers: Andrea Cornwell, Leah Clarke, Adam Ackland) – After the sudden and tragic loss of his wife, a young father grapples with reality as an ominous presence seems to lurk in the dark corners of the apartment he shares with his two young sons. The film stars Benedict Cumberbatch, Richard Boxall, Henry Boxall, Eric Lampaert, Vinette Robinson, and Sam Spruell. This is its world premiere, and it’s a work of fiction.

“Train Dreams” / USA (Directed and Written by Clint Bentley, Co-written by Greg Kwedar; Produced by Marissa McMahon, Teddy Schwarzman, Will Janowitz, Ashley Schlaifer, Michael Heimler) – Robert Grainer, a laborer constructing America’s railroads at the turn of the 20th century, encounters deep affection, unexpected setbacks, and witnesses a world undergoing unstoppable change right before his eyes. Starring: Joel Edgerton, Felicity Jones, Kerry Condon, William H. Macy. This is a World Premiere Fiction film, part of the Salt Lake Celebration.

The Wedding Feast / U.S.A. (Director and Screenwriter: Andrew Ahn, Co-Screenwriter and Producer: James Schamus, Producers: Anita Gou, Joe Pirro, Caroline Clark) –– In a bind due to his reluctant boyfriend Chris’s hesitance towards commitment, Min suggests an unconventional solution: a green card marriage with friend Angela in order to secure costly IVF treatments for her partner Lee. However, things become complicated when Min’s grandmother unexpectedly arranges a lavish Korean wedding ceremony. Cast: Bowen Yang, Lily Gladstone, Kelly Marie Tran, Han Gi-chan, Joan Chen, Youn Yuh-jung. World Premiere. Fictional Drama.

Midnight

Resurrecting My Beloved / Canada (Directed, Written, and Produced by Grace Glowicki, Co-Written and Produced by Ben Petrie, Produced by Yona Strauss) – A solitary gravedigger, heavily perfumed with the scent of the deceased, encounters her ideal partner. However, their passionate romance is abruptly ended when he meets a tragic fate at sea. Overwhelmed by grief, she embarks on eccentric scientific experiments in an attempt to bring him back to life, leading to unforeseen complications and an unexpected romance.

In the Zombie Apocalypse, a struggling podcast host refuses to let go of his dwindling audience. (USA – Director: Meera Menon, Co-writers: Paul Gleason, Producers: Erica Fishman, Joe Camerota, Luke Patton)

Title character: Opus / USA

“Rabbit Trap” / U.K. (Directed and Written by Bryn Chainey, Produced by Daniel Noah, Lawrence Inglee, Elijah Wood, Elisa Lleras, Adrian Politowski, Martin Metz) – A family of musicians relocating to a secluded Welsh home unintentionally stirs up old folklore magic, leading to an unnamed child mysteriously appearing at their doorstep, seeking to insinuate himself into their lives. Key actors: Dev Patel, Rosy McEwen, Jade Croot. World Premiere. This is a work of fiction.

In unity, Australia and U.S.A. (Directed and Written by Michael Shanks, Produced by Dave Franco, Alison Brie, Mike Cowap, Andrew Mittman, Erik Feig, Max Silva) – A move to the countryside challenges a couple’s bond, but an otherworldly experience triggers an intense metamorphosis of their love, existence, and physical form. (Cast: Alison Brie, Dave Franco, Damon Herriman. Debut. Fictional.)

“Feel Me

“The Unattractive Stepmate” / Norway (Director and Writer: Emilie Blichfeldt, Producer: Maria Ekerhovd) – In a kingdom where beauty is ruthlessly valued, Elvira strives to stand out amidst her stunningly beautiful stepsister. She’ll do whatever it takes to win the prince’s affection. Cast: Lea Myren, Thea Sofie Loch Næss, Ane Dahl Torp, Flo Fagerli, Isac Calmroth, Malte Gårdinger. World Premiere. Fictional Tale.

Episodic

Hailing from Bucks County, USA (also known as Pennsylvania), Evi and Vanessa are 14-year-old friends who, despite their contrasting political views, remain inseparable. As the country’s heated debates over education intensify into bitter arguments within their local community, these young girls join forces with others to find common ground amidst the polarization. This compelling documentary series titled “Bucks County” is directed and co-produced by Barry Levinson and Robert May, with Jason Sosnoff serving as executive producer. The world premiere of this five-part docu-series will screen the first two episodes.

Title duo: Hal & Harper / USA (Directed and Produced by Cooper Raiff, Co-Producers: Clementine Quittner, Lili Reinhart, Daniel Lewis, Addison Timlin) – This production follows the journey of Hal, Harper, and their father as they navigate their family’s transformation.

A documentary titled “Pee-wee as Himself” / U.S.A. (Directors: Matt Wolf, Producers: Emma Tillinger Koskoff) – This film offers an insightful look into the life of Paul Reubens, a renowned artist and character actor, particularly his alter ego Pee-wee Herman. Before his passing, Reubens shared intimate details about his creative inspirations and the challenges he overcame to continue his artistic journey. World Premiere. Documentary. The documentary is presented in two parts, screened together in their entirety.

Episodic Pilot Showcase

Bulldozer USA (Lead Writer and Executive Producer: Joanna Leeds, Director and Executive Producer: Andrew Leeds, Additional Executive Producers: Rhett Reese, Caleb Reese) – This story follows a fiercely determined yet underprepared young woman as she navigates one self-inflicted crisis after another.

In a bustling house party in Los Angeles, an up-and-coming musician seeks her crush amidst a sea of individuals yearning for fleeting dreams. This film, titled “Chasers,” is directed by Erin Brown Thomas, co-written by Ciarra Krohne, and produced by Elle Shaw, Olivia Haller, Beth Napoli, and Hayden Greiwe. The cast includes Ciarra Krohne, Louie Chapman, Keana Marie, Shannon Gisela, Brooke Maroon, and Xan Churchwell. It premieres for the first time globally in fiction format and can be accessed online by the public.

Avoid Getting Caught! / Australia (Showrunners: David Anthony Ngo, Erin Williams-Weir, Executive Producers: John Battsek, Chris Smith) –– Barry Cooper was a highly respected Texas drug enforcement officer – until he blew the whistle on corrupt cops and tutored drug users on secret methods to conceal their supplies. World Premiere. Documentary.

Spotlight

As a passionate cinephile, let me share my thoughts on the compelling film titled “April / Georgia,” directed and penned by Dea Kulumbegashvili. This captivating piece was produced by a talented team that includes Luca Guadagnino, David Zerat, Francesco Melzi d’Eril, Archil Gelovani, Gabriele Moratti, and Alexandra Rossi.

Title One-to-One: John & Yoko – A Deep Dive into their Transformative Time in New York City

Family Matinee

The Tale of Ochi / United States (Directed, Written, and Produced by Isaiah Saxon, Producers: Richard Peete, Traci Carlson, Jonathan Wang) – Set in a secluded village on the island of Carpathia, a young farm girl named Yuri grows up with an ingrained fear of a creature called Ochi. However, when she stumbles upon an injured baby Ochi, she embarks on a journey to return him safely to his home.

Special Screenings

The Six Billion Dollar Man / USA (Directed by Eugene Jarecki, Produced by Kathleen Fournier)

From the Collection

The North / U.S.A. (Directed and Written by Gregory Nava, Co-Written and Produced by Anna Thomas) — Following a massacre by the Guatemalan government during the civil war, indigenous siblings Rosa and Enrique escape northwards to the United States in search of survival. However, they soon discover that life in America is not as they had imagined. (Fictional Account)

This film has undergone a 2017 digital restoration using the original negatives, overseen by the Academy Film Archive and partially funded by the Getty Foundation. For this viewing, we’re grateful to Lionsgate for providing it.

I had the privilege of directing a fascinating documentary titled “Unzipped” – an exclusive look at the intense journey of designer Isaac Mizrahi as he brought his 1994 collection to reality. From initial sketches to the runway, this captivating ride offers a glimpse into the backstage drama, creative victories, and iconic supermodels such as Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, and Linda Evangelista. This film is a must-watch for anyone interested in fashion and design! (Director: Douglas Keeve, Producer: Michael Alden)

2024-12-11 20:56