This October, AFI FEST 2024 returns to Hollywood, celebrating its 37th edition with an impressive lineup of films, world premieres, and special screenings, showcasing a tapestry of diverse voices from around the world. Set to take place from October 23-27 at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre, the festival opens with Music by John Williams, a tribute to the legendary composer whose work has defined generations of film music. The festival’s closing night features Clint Eastwood’s Juror #2, a gripping courtroom drama exploring moral dilemmas and justice.
This year’s festival emphasizes inclusivity, with nearly half of the lineup directed by women and non-binary filmmakers and over a quarter helmed by BIPOC directors. In total, AFI FEST 2024 showcases 158 films from 44 countries, ranging from independent gems to anticipated award-season contenders.
Red Carpet Premieres
This year’s AFI FEST features a captivating lineup, with Heretic as one of its most intriguing entries. Directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods and produced by industry veterans Stacey Sher, Julia Glausi, and Jeanette Volturno, Heretic stars Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher, and Chloe East in a haunting narrative. Thatcher and East portray young missionaries whose faith is tested when they encounter the menacing Mr. Reed (Grant) in a terrifying game of cat-and-mouse. Heretic’s chilling ambiance is brought to life by costumer Betsy Heimann, production designer Phil Messing, and composer Chris Bacon, all contributing to the film’s deeply unsettling atmosphere. A24 is set to release Heretic nationwide on November 8.
Robert Zemeckis reunites with Tom Hanks and Robin Wright in Here, adapted from Richard McGuire’s novel. This visually compelling piece weaves multiple lives within a single room over decades, blending stories of love and memory in Zemeckis’ unique style.
Maria, directed by Pablo Larraín, stars Angelina Jolie as the legendary Maria Callas, offering a raw look into the opera star’s turbulent final days in Paris. Jolie’s portrayal of Callas’ vulnerability and strength brings depth to Larraín’s vision of the iconic artist.
Finally, Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl, directed by Nick Park and Merlin Crossingham, delivers the humor and suspense fans adore, as Gromit battles a rogue “smart gnome” with a mind of its own.
Other AFI FEST Highlights
AFI FEST’s documentary offerings are equally impressive. Architecton, directed by Victor Kossakovsky, captures architectural wonders, blending visuals with an exploration of human creativity. Chris Smith’s Devo dives into the impact of the new wave band, revealing their cultural influence from the 1970s to today.
Meanwhile, No Other Land offers a timely perspective on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, directed by a diverse team of filmmakers who examine this complex region through a humanizing lens. These documentaries offer powerful, real-world narratives that broaden the festival’s scope.
International Films: A Global Perspective on Storytelling
The World Cinema section showcases nine Oscar® contenders for Best International Feature, including Dahomey from Senegal, The Seed of the Sacred Fig from Germany, and Universal Language from Canada. This section emphasizes global diversity, featuring films that tackle identity, culture, and social justice. These internationally acclaimed works provide American audiences with rare insights into stories that span countries, cultures, and perspectives.
International Films: A Global Perspective on Storytelling
A major highlight this year is the Director Spotlight on Robert Zemeckis, featuring an exclusive conversation between Zemeckis and Tom Hanks. This in-depth discussion, free to the public, offers fans a unique look at the creative process behind Zemeckis’ iconic films.
The Special Screenings section, including Bird by Andrea Arnold, adds to the festival’s vibrant schedule. Arnold’s social-realist drama features Barry Keoghan in a surreal journey that reflects both the harshness and beauty of life.
A Must Attend
AFI FEST 2024 promises a celebration of storytelling that invites audiences to explore the world of cinema through diverse voices and compelling narratives. With a lineup of celebrated directors, international premieres, and thought-provoking documentaries, the festival remains a highlight on Hollywood’s cultural calendar, bridging local and global perspectives through the power of film.
How to Attend and Ticket Options
AFI FEST offers diverse access options, from all-access passes to individual screenings, ensuring everyone can engage with this year’s expansive programming. For details and tickets, visit AFI FEST
Photo credits: Photo courtesy of AFI Fest
