AFI Fest 2025 Unveils Star-Studded Red Carpet Premieres and World Debuts
Hollywood is about to shine even brighter this fall as AFI Fest 2025 has announced an exciting lineup of red carpet premieres, world debuts, and special screenings that will draw some of the biggest names in film.
From George Clooney’s highly anticipated Netflix drama “Jay Kelly” to Sydney Sweeney’s powerhouse turn in “Christy”, the festival promises to be one of the most talked-about events of the year.
Movie lovers from Los Angeles, New York City, Miami Beach, Berlin, and beyond will gather in Hollywood from October 22-26 for a week of film, glamour, and unforgettable storytelling.
The festival will take place at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre, with more than 150 films from around the globe.
“AFI FEST is where over 150 films from around the world meet movie lovers in Hollywood,”
Bob Gazzale
AFI President and CEO
“Our goal is nothing short of a global embrace – where we discover and rediscover the power of a shared story on a big screen.”
Hollywood Lights Up With New Red Carpet Galas
AFI Fest added four new red carpet premieres, each bringing major star power.
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Jay Kelly (Netflix) premieres Thursday, October 23. Directed by Noah Baumbach, the film stars George Clooney as a famous actor reflecting on his life and career. The cast includes Laura Dern, Adam Sandler, Greta Gerwig, and Riley Keough.
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Nuremberg (Sony Pictures Classics) follows on Friday, October 24. This gripping historical drama stars Rami Malek and Russell Crowe and tells the story of the post-WWII trials.
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Dead Man’s Wire (Row K Entertainment) debuts Saturday afternoon, October 25. Directed by Gus Van Sant, this thriller features Bill Skarsgård and Al Pacino in a tale of a shocking 1977 kidnapping.
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Christy (Black Bear Pictures) closes the red carpet events Saturday night, October 25. Sydney Sweeney shines in this biopic of legendary boxer Christy Martin.
These titles join the opening night film Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere, a movie about Bruce Springsteen, and two world premieres: Song Sung Blue and The SpongeBob Movie: Search for Squarepants.
Special Screenings With Big Buzz
The festival isn’t just about red carpet glamour. AFI Fest is also known for its Special Screenings section, featuring indie gems and world premieres that generate critical buzz.
Todd Hitchcock, AFI FEST Director, described it best:
“AFI FEST’s Special Screenings section includes some of the most buzzed-about films from the festival circuit, an eclectic mix that promises to surprise and delight film lovers.”
Highlights include:
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Bad Apples – U.S. premiere of a dark satire starring Saoirse Ronan.
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Nebraska Live – Bruce Springsteen performs his iconic 1982 album Nebraska in full for the first time, captured in moody black-and-white.
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Bugonia – A wild ride from six-time Oscar nominee Yorgos Lanthimos starring Jesse Plemons and Emma Stone.
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Merrily We Roll Along – A film adaptation of the Stephen Sondheim musical.
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Rental Family – Brendan Fraser stars in a heartfelt Searchlight drama set in modern-day Tokyo.
With such a diverse lineup, there’s something for every type of movie fan.
Which Will Dominate Awards Season
AFI Fest has long been a platform for Oscar hopefuls and breakout performances. This year’s selections hint at what could dominate awards season.
For example, “Jay Kelly” pairs George Clooney with Adam Sandler in a story about fame, regret, and redemption. Netflix is betting big on this film, releasing it worldwide on December 5.
“Nuremberg” brings historical weight, with Rami Malek’s role as a psychiatrist tasked with judging the sanity of Nazi leaders like Hermann Göring. The film’s November 7 release date positions it perfectly for awards buzz.
Meanwhile, Sydney Sweeney’s performance in “Christy” is already drawing early praise as a career-defining role, portraying both the triumphs and personal struggles of a pioneering female boxer.
A Global Festival With Local Star Power
From Los Angeles to Berlin, AFI Fest attracts international attention. It’s not just about watching movies but celebrating cinema as a shared cultural experience.
The TCL Chinese Theatre, with its Hollywood legacy, provides the perfect backdrop. Attendees will include filmmakers, critics, and fans from across the globe, making this festival a true meeting point for the film industry.
The full slate of AFI Fest films will be revealed on September 30, giving audiences time to plan their must-see screenings.
Get Ready for a Week of Movie Magic
AFI Fest 2024 is shaping up to be one of the most memorable festivals in recent years. With star-studded premieres, daring new voices, and intimate performances like “Nebraska Live,” this is a can’t-miss event for cinephiles and casual moviegoers alike.
Whether you’re walking the red carpet or watching from home, this year’s lineup promises to inspire and entertain. Mark your calendars for October 22-26 and experience the best of world cinema in the heart of Hollywood.
