Nashville Film Festival 2023: Exciting Lineup and Special Screenings
The Nashville Film Festival is set to elevate its 56th annual celebration, running from September 18-24, with two highly anticipated film screenings. This year’s closing night will feature Bill Condon’s Kiss of the Spider Woman, starring Jennifer Lopez, Diego Luna, and Tonatiuh. Following the screening, Tonatiuh will be honored with a rising star award during a Q&A session.
In addition to this captivating closing presentation, the festival will showcase a centerpiece documentary titled John Candy: I Like Me, directed by Colin Hanks and produced by a team that includes Ryan Reynolds. Lauren Thelen, NashFilm’s programming director, expressed her excitement about this year’s selections, stating, “We are thrilled to share these films with our local audiences, setting the stage for an unforgettable week. Each film tells heartfelt and inspiring stories that reflect the best of contemporary cinema.”
What to Expect from the Films
Kiss of the Spider Woman follows Valentín, a political prisoner portrayed by Luna, who finds himself sharing a cell with Molina, a window dresser played by Tonatiuh. As they navigate their circumstances, Molina recounts the story of a Hollywood musical featuring his beloved diva, Ingrid Luna, played by Lopez. The film is scheduled to hit theaters on October 10, through a collaboration between Roadside Attractions, Lionsgate, and LD Entertainment.
On the other hand, John Candy: I Like Me offers an intimate look at the life and legacy of the beloved comedy icon, exploring his journey to fame while grappling with personal challenges and the pressures of Hollywood. This documentary features never-before-seen home videos, access to Candy’s family, and heartfelt memories shared by his collaborators. The screening is set for September 20, with a theatrical release also on October 10.
Festival Highlights
The Nashville Film Festival will kick off with an opening night celebration at Urban Cowboy Bar in the Arcade on September 18, and will conclude with a grand closing party at Electric Jane on September 24. Earlier this month, the festival unveiled a diverse lineup that includes:
- The Baltimorons by Jay Duplass
- By Design by Amanda Kramer
- Come See Me in the Good Light by Ryan White
- Rebuilding by Max Walker Silverman
- You’ve Got Gold: A Celebration of John Prine by Michael John Warren
- Opryland USA: A Circle Broken by Brandon Vestal
In addition to feature films, attendees can look forward to music videos, short films, episodic programming, and a variety of panels and discussions.
For more information about this year’s Nashville Film Festival, including tickets and event details, visit the official festival website. Don’t miss the chance to experience some of the most compelling films of the season in the heart of Nashville!
