The buzz from notable festivals like Sundance, Cannes, Venice, Telluride, and Toronto has left film enthusiasts excited as we dive into the New York Film Festival (NYFF), which starts today at Lincoln Center and runs until October 13. This year, we’ve compiled a watchlist featuring 10 standout films we’ve already seen and another 10 titles that we’re highly anticipating. So without further ado, let’s delve into the highlights of NYFF.
Our Favorites:
After the Hunt
Luca Gudagnino’s After the Hunt is a compelling piece, despite its convoluted plot revolving around a philosophy professor accused of sexual assault by a Yale PhD candidate. The film showcases exceptional performances from Julia Roberts, Andrew Garfield, Ayo Edebiri, and Michael Stuhlbarg, complemented by stunning production design by Stefano Baisi. Expect an immersive atmosphere that will spark engaging discussions long after the credits roll. — Marley Marius
Blue Moon
Richard Linklater’s latest offering, Blue Moon, stands out as a sharp and insightful exploration of creative decline. It chronicles Broadway lyricist Lorenz Hart (Ethan Hawke) facing insecurities during the opening night of Oklahoma!, a production he did not contribute to. Hawke’s portrayal of a tortured genius is electrifying, blending jealousy and charm as he navigates personal and professional turmoil. — Taylor Antrim
A House of Dynamite
Kathryn Bigelow’s tense thriller A House of Dynamite encapsulates the urgency of nuclear crisis storytelling, mirroring classic cinematic depictions with a fresh, subversive touch. Bigelow infuses the film with her unmistakable intensity, leading to a gripping narrative that culminates in a shocking conclusion. — TA
If I Had Legs I’d Kick You
Mary Bronstein’s darkly comedic drama stars a brilliant Rose Byrne as Linda, a mother navigating a crisis at a rundown hotel with her fragile daughter. A harrowing depiction of co-dependence emerges, balanced by sharp humor and strong supporting performances, including Conan O’Brien as Linda’s therapist and A$AP Rocky as a charming enabler. — TA
It Was Just an Accident
Renowned Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi’s It Was Just an Accident delivers a powerful critique of trauma and justice in contemporary Iran, blending suspense and dark humor to address life under an authoritarian regime. After winning the Palme d’Or at Cannes, the film promises a profound experience. A conversation featuring Panahi and legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese is eagerly awaited at Lincoln Center. — Lisa Wong Macabasco
The Mastermind
In The Mastermind, Kelly Reichardt captures the disillusionment of early-70s suburban Massachusetts through the eyes of JB Mooney, masterfully played by Josh O’Connor. The film chronicles a bumbling theft plan against the backdrop of the Watergate scandal, intertwining dry humor and poignant storytelling. Reichardt’s abilities to weave serious themes with subtlety shine through. — LWM
Miroirs No. 3
Photo: Courtesy of 1-2 Special
Christian Petzold’s haunting Miroirs No. 3 follows pianist Laura (Paula Beer) as she grapples with memory and identity after a tragic accident. Her journey into self-discovery is told through lush cinematography and potent performances, proving to be both captivating and introspective. — LWM
Nouvelle Vague
Linklater’s second entry at this year’s festival, Nouvelle Vague, brings audiences backstage to the nascent career of Jean-Luc Godard (played by Guillaume Marbeck). A whimsical tribute to the influential figure in cinema and the chaotic yet liberating beginnings of New Wave filmmaking, with delightful performances from Zoey Deutch and others. Expect a heartfelt exploration of cinematic artistry. — MM
A Private Life
Exemplary actress Jodie Foster makes a captivating return in A Private Life, a psychological mystery that explores dark themes of loss and suspicion. Her role as a psychoanalyst questioning a patient’s supposed suicide showcases captivating performances wrapped in a richly detailed narrative. The film intertwines sharp satire with introspection, drawing viewers into a labyrinth of emotions. — LWM
RomerĂa
In RomerĂa, Spanish director Carla SimĂłn crafts a poignant narrative around Marina, an 18-year-old embarking on a quest for her family’s past while seeking her identity. Drawing from personal experiences, the film elicits emotions of belonging and loss, celebrating the complexity of family ties. — LWM
Our Most Anticipated:
Barrio Triste
Photo: Courtesy of Film at Lincoln Center
Yet another promising title is Barrio Triste, helmed by music video director Stillz. This film aims for an immersive venture into the gang-ridden neighborhoods of MedellĂn through a raw found-footage perspective. The collaboration with controversial filmmaker Harmony Korine’s production studio promises an electrifying experience, supplemented by original scores from Venezuelan musician Arca. — TA
The Currents
Photo: Courtesy of Film at Lincoln Center
The buzz surrounding The Currents, an Argentinian drama about a fashion designer’s unsettling transformation, promises to bring captivating narratives to the forefront of this year’s festival. Anticipation swells as audiences expect the exploration of existential themes tied to identity and personal history. — TA
Father Mother Sister Brother
In Father Mother Sister Brother, Jim Jarmusch presents a unique triptych of familial stories across various cultures, featuring an ensemble cast that includes Adam Driver and Cate Blanchett. This film, described as an “anti-action film,” diverges from mainstream storytelling, allowing for deep reflections on familial bonds. It earned the prestigious Golden Lion at Venice, making it a much-discussed possibility at NYFF. — MM
La Grazia
Paolo Sorrentino’s eagerly awaited La Grazia returns with a reflective narrative about an aging Italian president, starring his long-time collaborator Toni Servillo. With glowing reviews from Venice, this film promises to weave a tale rich in Italian elegance and nuance. — TA
Is This Thing On?
Bradley Cooper returns with his latest directorial venture, Is This Thing On?, featuring Will Arnett as a man at a crossroads in his life, exploring stand-up comedy in Manhattan amidst personal upheaval. Anticipation mounts as audiences are curious about whether Cooper can deliver yet again after his previous successes. — TA
The Love That Remains
Hlynur Pálmason’s latest film, The Love That Remains, follows a family torn apart by divorce, intricately exploring themes of healing and reconciliation. With a background set in stunningly remote Iceland, it has the makings of a deeply moving story anchored by Pálmason’s sensibility. — MM
Mr. Scorsese
An anticipated highlight of NYFF is the docuseries Mr. Scorsese, exploring the life and career of iconic filmmaker Martin Scorsese. Directed by Rebecca Miller, you will not want to miss the compelling conversations and insights, featuring esteemed guests including Robert De Niro, Leonardo DiCaprio, and many more. For those unable to catch it, the series will release on Apple TV+ on October 17. — MM
Peter Hujar’s Day
Continuing their collaboration, Ira Sachs and Ben Whishaw present Peter Hujar’s Day, encapsulating a poignant conversation between the revered photographer and writer Linda Rosenkrantz. Set in 1974, the film promises to capture the essence of creativity and connection, showcasing Hujar’s artistic lens. — MM
Sentimental Value
Norwegian director Joachim Trier reunites with Renate Reinsve in Sentimental Value, which navigates complex family dynamics as estranged sisters confront their father’s legacy in cinema. Packed with emotional depth and thoughtful storytelling, the film promises to be another impactful piece from this talented duo. — MM
Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere
Scott Cooper’s Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere centers on the making of the iconic album Nebraska and its cultural significance. Starring Jeremy Allen White, the film dives deep into the essence of Springsteen’s music and the heart behind it. This exploration promises to resonate with fans and newcomers alike. — TA
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