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.

1/ Amy Bench, “A Line Birds Cannot See”

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.

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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.

1/ Becoming Leslie

Leslie Cochran was one of Austin’s most beloved weirdos (Credit: Tim Pipe/courtesy of “Becoming Leslie”)

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