The American Film Institute (AFI) announced the lineup for this year’s AFI FEST, taking place in Los Angeles from October 25 to October 29.
While AFI highlights include the World Premiere of Albert Brooks: Defending My Life directed by Academy Award nominee Rob Reiner, All of Us Strangers directed by Andrew Haigh, American Fiction directed by Cord Jefferson, The Bikeriders directed by Jeff Nichols, The End We Start From directed by Mahalia Belo, Fingernails directed by Christos Nikou, the World Premiere of Freud’s Last Session directed by Matthew Brown, Memory directed by Michel Franco, Quiz Lady directed by Academy Award winner Jessica Yu, and Society of the Snow directed by J.A. Bayona, which will all screen in the Special Screenings section.
The big news for Chicago is that, Chicago-made We Grown Now by Minhal Baig and The Bikeriders by Jeff Nichols (that is set in Chicago) have been selected by arguably the best film festival on the West Coast.
“Everyone on the AFI FEST team is proud to share this year’s selection of outstanding films from around the world with the audiences of Los Angeles,” said Todd Hitchcock, Director of AFI FEST. “Cinema is truly a global language, and the diversity of screen artistry represented here will widen the horizons for all moviegoers.”
The Bikeriders
The Bikeriders is a compelling American drama film written and directed by Jeff Nichols. Inspired by the iconic 1967 photo-book of the same name by Danny Lyon, this film features an ensemble cast of talent, including Jodie Comer, Austin Butler, Tom Hardy, Michael Shannon, Mike Faist, and Norman Reedus.
The film made its world premiere at the prestigious 50th Telluride Film Festival on August 31, 2023, leaving audiences buzzing with anticipation. Now, fans of gripping storytelling and stellar performances can mark their calendars for its nationwide release in the United States on December 1, 2023, courtesy of 20th Century Studios.
The Bikeriders takes viewers on a thrilling journey into the heart of a turbulent subculture. The film’s narrative revolves around Kathy, portrayed by the talented Jodie Comer, a determined member of the Vandals motorcycle club. Kathy’s life is intertwined with that of her wild and reckless bikerider husband, Benny, played by Austin Butler.
The story unfolds over a decade, chronicling the Vandals’ evolution from a local club of outsiders bonded by the pursuit of good times, the roar of rumbling bikes, and unwavering loyalty to their strong and steady leader, Johnny.
Kathy, a force to be reckoned with in her own right, grapples with the challenges of navigating her husband’s untamed nature and his deep allegiance to Johnny. In her eyes, she must compete with the charismatic leader for Benny’s attention, setting the stage for a gripping power struggle.
As the Vandals teeter on the edge of transformation into a more sinister gang, the trio—Kathy, Benny, and Johnny—find themselves at a crossroads. Loyalties are tested, alliances are questioned, and the specter of danger looms large. The Bikeriders explores the complex choices that these characters must make, both for the sake of their club and their personal connections.
Nichols, known for his powerful storytelling and masterful direction, promises an unforgettable cinematic experience with The Bikeriders. The film not only captures the essence of the original photo-book but also delves deep into the human drama at the heart of this unique subculture. Watch the trailer below:
We Grown Now
We Grown Now, the highly anticipated film from director Minhal Baig, serves as her follow-up to the critically acclaimed 2019 debut Hala. This moving cinematic journey has already made waves, having been showcased at TIFF Centrepiece and Next Wave Selects.
Set against the backdrop of 1992 Chicago, a time when basketball legend Michael Jordan was solidifying his status as a champion, the film delves into the lives of two wide-eyed and imaginative best friends, Malik and Eric. The young protagonists are on a quest to break free from the mundane routines of school and the challenges of growing up in public housing.
Malik and Eric share an unbreakable bond that defines their experiences in a rapidly changing urban landscape. However, their enduring friendship faces its most formidable test when tragedy strikes their community. Watch the trailer below:
Baig’s work has garnered attention for its authentic and emotionally resonant storytelling, and We Grown Now promises to be another powerful addition to her filmography. With its evocative setting, compelling characters, and exploration of themes like friendship, resilience, and community, the film is poised to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact.
AFI FEST 2023 will take place exclusively in person in Los Angeles from October 25 to October 29. AFI members receive discounts on tickets and other exclusive benefits. To become an AFI member, visit AFI.com/join/.
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