AFI Film Fest 2024, Los Angeles October 23-27

AFI FEST is Back at the TLC  Chinese Theatres: Showcasing the Best in Global Cinema and Oscar-Qualifying Shorts

The AFI FEST has long been recognized as a premier event in the cinematic world, offering a platform for both emerging talents and established filmmakers to showcase their work. Each year, the festival draws film enthusiasts to Los Angeles, where a diverse lineup of films, from fiction to documentaries and shorts, is presented. The 2024 edition of AFI FEST promises to continue this tradition, highlighting the best in global cinema.

A significant aspect of AFI FEST is its role as a qualifying festival for the Academy Awards® in the Short Films categories. This recognition by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences underscores the festival’s importance within the industry, as it continues to elevate short films and their creators, offering them a path to broader recognition.

Over the years, AFI FEST has paid tribute to numerous influential figures in cinema. Icons such as Halle Berry, Catherine Deneuve, Barry Jenkins, and Sofia Coppola have been honored, reflecting the festival’s commitment to celebrating those who have made substantial contributions to the art of filmmaking. The festival’s dedication to honoring both veteran and contemporary artists underscores its role as a bridge between different generations of cinematic talent.

The 2024 festival will open with the world premiere of the documentary Music by John Williams. This film, produced by industry heavyweights such as Steven Spielberg and Ron Howard, offers an in-depth look at the life and career of John Williams, one of the most prolific and influential composers in film history. Directed by Laurent Bouzereau, the documentary features interviews with a host of notable figures whose lives and work have been touched by Williams’ music, including Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, and Gustavo Dudamel.

Williams’ impact on the world of film music is unparalleled, with a career spanning decades and scores that have become as iconic as the films they accompany. From “Star Wars” to “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” his compositions are etched into the collective memory of audiences worldwide. The documentary not only celebrates Williams’ achievements but also highlights the enduring power of orchestral music in cinema.

Following its premiere at AFI FEST,  Music by John Williams will be released theatrically and will subsequently be available for streaming on Disney+ starting November 1st. The festival itself will run from October 23-27 at the TCL Chinese Theatres , featuring a carefully curated selection of films, panels, and discussions that will engage both industry professionals and film lovers alike.

AFI FEST continues to be a cornerstone of the film festival circuit, offering a unique blend of world premieres, classic film screenings, and insightful conversations, all set against the backdrop of Hollywood, the heart of the film industry.

Festivalgoers have the opportunity to purchase a Star Pass or upgrade to a Patron Pass. Passes are available on FEST.AFI.com. The full festival lineup will be unveiled on October 1.

A pass alone does not grant entry to a screening, and passholders must reserve tickets in advance of the festival. Patron passholders will have priority access to screening selection on October 2 beginning at 11:00 a.m. PT.  Star passholders will have early access to screening selection on October 3 beginning at 11:00 a.m. PT. Individual tickets will be available on October 7.

Official website: AFI Fest