Fantastic Fest, known as “The Greatest Show on Earth,” is making a return for its 19th edition, featuring an array of cinematic wonders from across the globe. This year’s lineup boasts 28 World Premieres, 23 International and North American Premieres, and 15 U.S. Premieres that are sure to captivate and surprise audiences. The festival will once again be held at Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar in Austin, TX, from September 19th to 26th.
Festival Director Lisa Dreyer expressed her excitement, stating, “We’re thrilled to have a number of distinguished guests joining us and to welcome our Fantastic Fest family back to Austin to celebrate cinema, whether it’s your first time or 19th!”
The festival kicks off with the world premiere of director James Ashcroft’s “The Rule of Jenny Pen,” featuring Geoffrey Rush as a judge in a nursing home who encounters a peculiar resident played by John Lithgow. The film promises an intense and entertaining thriller that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Another highlight of the festival is the horror psychological thriller “Never Let Go,” directed by Alexandre Aja and starring Halle Berry. The film follows a mother and her twin sons as they battle evil in a fight for survival, promising a gripping and suspenseful experience.
Fans of Art the Clown can look forward to “Terrifier 3,” the highly anticipated sequel by Damien Leone set during Christmas, sponsored by Cineverse, Bloody Disgusting, Screambox, and Dark Age Cinema, promising to spread some holiday fear.
Additionally, the festival will feature the heartwarming Netflix documentary “Will & Harper,” following the journey of friends Will Ferrell and Harper Steele as they embark on a cross-country road trip after Harper comes out as a trans woman. The film offers an intimate portrayal of friendship and transition.
Director Nacho Vigalondo will be honored at the festival for his contributions to genre film, with a screening of his latest film “Daniela Forever,” a personal sci-fi romance followed by a conversation with the director.
The festival will conclude with the world premiere of Hulu’s “Mr. Crocket,” directed by Brandon Espy, featuring Elvis Nolasco as a diabolical children’s TV show host and Jerrika Hinton as a mother determined to protect her son. The film promises to be an imaginative slasher with a deep emotional core.
Other films to look out for include “A Different Man,” “AJ Goes to the Dog Park,” “Apartment 7A,” “Bone Lake,” “Bookworm,” and many more, offering a diverse range of genres and storytelling.
For the complete film schedule, tickets, and badges, you can visit the official Fantastic Fest website at https://www.fantasticfest.com/.