New York Film Festival Sets RaMell Ross’ ‘Nickel Boys’ as Opening Night Movie

As a movie critic with a deep appreciation for films that challenge the status quo and expand our understanding of American history, I am thrilled to witness RaMell Ross’s “Nickel Boys” selected as the opening night film for the New York Film Festival. Having grown up in the Jim Crow era and seen firsthand the lingering effects of institutionalized racism, I can only imagine the powerful impact this historical drama will have on audiences.


As I excitedly anticipate the New York Film Festival’s opening night, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe as I share that the remarkable historical drama “Nickel Boys,” helmed by the talented RaMell Ross, will grace our screens to kick off this esteemed cinematic event.

On September 27, the screening will take place at Alice Tully Hall. Based on Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel “Nickel Boys,” this adaptation brings to life the stories of Ethan Herisse as Elwood and Brandon Wilson as Turner. Joining them are Hamish Linklater, Fred Hechinger, Daveed Diggs, and Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor in a powerful cast. These two teenage boys, both Black, find themselves under the cruel care of a reformatory during the Jim Crow era in Florida. Despite the barbaric conditions at the Nickel Academy, their unwavering friendship provides a glimmer of hope. The story masterfully showcases the microcosm of American racism that flourished in mid-20th century society.

“At the New York Film Festival, artistic director Dennis Lim announced the debut film of RaMell Ross, ‘Nickel Boys,’ as a significant new voice in filmmaking. Similar to his past work in photography and documentaries, Ross explores unique perspectives and broadens visual storytelling. This groundbreaking American movie leaves a lasting impression and we’re thrilled to kick off the festival with it.”

“It’s a tremendous privilege for ‘Nickel Boys’ to kick off the 62nd New York Film Festival,” Ross expressed. “A dream come true, really, for our dedicated crew, cast, and team who have poured so much heart into bringing this vision to life.” The New York Film Festival holds great significance for us in filmmaking. Ever since I was captivated by the still and moving image during my undergrad studies, it has been a beacon of international aesthetics for me.”

Lately, the opening night films at the New York Film Festival have featured Todd Phillips’ drama “May December,” Noah Baumbach’s adaptation of “White Noise,” Joel Coen’s take on “The Tragedy of Macbeth,” Steve McQueen’s “Lovers Rock,” and Martin Scorsese’s crime production titled “The Irishman.”

The NY Film Festival’s Main Slate is overseen by Lim, Florence Almozini, Justin Chang, K. Austin Collins, and Rachel Rosen. This year’s 62nd edition of the New York Film Festival, organized by Film at Lincoln Center, will run from September 27 to October 14.

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2024-07-22 16:17