The SXSW Film Festival is often seen as a launching pad for major studio releases, as well as smaller independent titles and buzz-worthy TV ventures, and this year’s edition looks to be no exception with the features, episodic premieres, and opening night film announced.
Running from March 13-21st this year, the 27th SXSW Film Festival will open with the premiere of The King of Staten Island, an autobiographical comedy fronted by SNL performer Pete Davidson and directed by Judd Apatow, his first as a director in 5 years; Apatow has a strong history with SXSW having premiered such back catalogue titles as Knocked Up, Bridesmaids, and Trainwreck in previous years.
Other high-profile projects set to preview to enthusiastic Austin crowds include The Lovebirds, a comedy starring Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani as a couple pulled into a murder mystery; Bad Trip, a hidden camera comedy in the same vein as Jackass and Bad Grandpa featuring Eric Andre and Tiffany Haddish; Cut Throat City, a New Orleans-set heist drama directed by RZA; and the upcoming Snowpiercer television series, starring Jennifer Connelly based off Bong Joon Ho‘s critically acclaimed film.
Across the 9 days there’ll be some 102 films and episodic releases screened, with additional titles to be announced February 5th. The complete line-up usually consists of more than 250 projects. The 2020 program was devised from 2316 feature-length submissions.
“We are astounded by the talent at every level, from the emerging micro-budget artist to those at the peak of their careers, and can’t wait to share their risk-taking, passion and achievements in March.”, said festival director Janet Pierson.
For more details about the festival, and to get your badge before prices go up at the end of the week, head to sxsw.com.
