Miami Film Festiva Bringing Comedies, Drama and Global Titles to Magic City
05.04.2024 - 16:55
/ variety.com
Cata Balzano Every year, the Miami Film Festival transforms the Florida city into a hub of cultural exchange and discovery, welcoming filmmakers, industry professionals and enthusiastic audiences for a celebration of independent films that entertain as well as inspire conversation. As Miami-Dade College gears up for its 41st edition of the festival, cinema aficionados can expect an array of films, discussions, Q&A sessions, special events, and awards ceremonies from
April 5-14.
With more than 165 films — including feature narratives, documentaries and shorts from more than 31 countries — the carefully curated fest sports one of its biggest lineups ever, says Lauren Cohen, director of programming. The festival kicks off with “Thelma,” a comedy about a grandmother’s quest to reclaim her lost money, directed by Josh Margolin and featuring a cast including June Squibb, “White Lotus” alum Fred Hechinger and Parker Posey.
Tony Goldwyn’s “Ezra,” starring Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, Vera Farmiga and Robert De Niro, will close the fest. “Ezra” centers on a stand-up comedian navigating co-parenting of his autistic son.
“It’s a very powerful, dramatic and comic story, but at the same time, it’s a very important mirror that shows the way we look at ourselves and the way we look at those around us,” says Goldwyn, who will be present on April 13 for the screening and will receive the Art of Light Award. Alison Brie, known for her work on TV series such as “Mad Men” and “Glow” in addition to starring and producing indie films, will also receive the Art of Light Award at the festival.