Discover the Best Things to Do in Austin, Food & Drink deals and more!
And just like that, it was over. Rather than a ten day marathon of sights, sounds, and showcases, SXSW Online 2021 concluded in five. It was different and while I still long for the traditional SX experience, this year’s event was full of innovations that made it feel like home. In fact, some of these should stick around for years to come.
[Read more…]
Batten down the hatches, y’all! SXSW is nigh! SXSW Film runs from March 13 to 22, 2020. This exciting film festival is in its 27th year. The film screenings, world premieres, and special events take place across 10 Austin film venues. Here’s a rundown of what to expect from each.
[Read more…]
At the risk of sounding cheesy, there’s nothing better than diversity. Multiple points of view stimulate thinking and broaden our horizons. Different voices with different experiences enrich us and help us grow.
Unfortunately, in the world of mainstream entertainment, there isn’t much outside of superheroes, lame comedies, and Oscar bait biopics.
Enter Austin’s many multicultural film festivals and their dedication to introducing us to a wide variety of cultures through the magic of movies. Whether you’re hungry for Asian American drama or looking for the latest in New French cinema, Austin has a festival tailor-made for your personal taste, and sense of adventure.
[Read more…]
Several cult favorite movies, “Dazed and Confused,” “Office Space,” and “Boyhood,” share something in common: Austin. As Austinites, we not only enjoy these movies for themselves, but get to see our city on the big screen.
Currently, a movie is in production that not only has Austin as a backdrop, but also prides itself on having deep Austin roots. The “Vecinos” script was written by a local playwright; it had two separate runs as a play; and the film uses local talent, and crew.
“Vecinos” tells a story many will appreciate, about family, love, and the complexity of finding the people and places that make a home.
[Read more…]As SXSW Film Festival roared through Austin, I was pleased to see the wide range of talent walking among us. SXSW Film encompassed movies, television, VR, AR, and motion capture film, full length features, and excellent shorts.
The programming for SXSW in general is mind-boggling, most especially because it’s run so efficiently. Kudos to the SXSW team! Another thing I loved was seeing so many badass women at the helm of Austin-based films, and speaking on panels.
Here is a sampling of the Austin-focused female filmmakers who really caught my attention this year. I want to add that I also loved another female-focused hilarious film, Olivia Wilde’s “Booksmart,” though there’s no Austin connection.
Austin film director Richard Linklater discusses his film “Boyhood” (Credit: LBJ Library via Flickr CC)
For 10 days, SXSW is the epicenter of entertainment, making it the perfect place for filmmakers to unveil their cinematic masterpieces. While many come from all over the world to do so, homegrown Austin film directors don’t have to go far to take advantage of the festival’s opportunities each year.
Here are five local directors who have premiered films during SXSW over the years. You’ll recognize some of the names, but hopefully you’ll also uncover a new favorite to follow.
If you’re planning to attend SXSW Film Festival 2019, you probably have a long list of screenings you want to attend. As you’re firming up your schedule, consider these four locally-oriented documentaries. From unforgettable personalities to irreplaceable communities, these films highlight bright lights across Austin’s past and present.
Leslie Cochran was one of Austin’s most beloved weirdos (Credit: Tim Pipe/courtesy of “Becoming Leslie”)
The entry way to AFS Cinema invites movie lovers into a world of art and beauty (Credit: Ellen Bruxvoort)
Austin film fans have a host of options. From dine-in multiplexes like Alamo Drafthouse and Moviehouse, to small format screens like Galaxy and Violet Crown, there’s no lack of options. A stalwart supporter of local cinema, Austin Film Society’s new theater is carving its own niche by delivering the charm of a traditional art house theater, with a distinctly Austin vibe. [Read more…]
Moviehouse & Eatery’s Southwest Bowl adds a touch of spice to a sizable portion of chicken, rice, and veggies
(Credit: Bill Tucker)
Love you to pieces, Amazon Prime, but there’s something magical about going to the movies. Whether it’s the communal experience of watching a film with a large audience or the sheer size of the screen, “Netflix and chill” will never fully replace the old school theater experience.
But the formula can always be improved upon. By combining the comforts of home with top-notch eats and a cinema experience that rivals the best in the industry, Moviehouse & Eatery is rapidly becoming Austin’s new go-to for a dine-in movie going experience. [Read more…]
Texas Focus panel with Film Programs Manager Rachel Manning on right (Credit: Bullock Museum)
Guest article by Janet Lee
Film is a window into other lives, whether they’re set in reality or an alternate universe. Movies provide various perspectives that are ultimately a reflection of our society. The Film Series Program at Bullock Museum delves into these perspectives, leading open and thematic discussions within the Austin community.
The museum’s mission is to create diverse conversations and narratives using the medium of film. And more importantly, to continue those conversations beyond the theater. Rather than simply hosting screenings, Bullock wants to collectively tackle myths, preconceived notions, and themes that are relevant and engaging. [Read more…]