Film Festival in Miami to Showcase ‘Thelma’ as Opening Film and ‘Ezra’ as Closing Screening

The Miami Film Festival has unveiled the lineup for its 41st edition, with “Thelma,” featuring June Squibb, kicking off the event and Tony Goldwyn’s “Ezra” closing the festival. Goldwyn will receive the Art of Light award alongside Alison Brie, while Greg Kwedar, director of “Sing Sing,” will be honored with the Impact Award.

Taking place from April 5-14, the festival will include Goldwyn in attendance for the closing screening of “Ezra” on April 13, which stars a star-studded cast including Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, Robert De Niro, Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, and Rainn Wilson.

James Woolley, Executive Director, remarked, “This year’s lineup features a diverse range of narrative programming, essential documentaries, and groundbreaking shorts, providing our local community with an incredible array of films to enjoy. The Miami Film Festival is excited to welcome back our audiences for another year of fantastic screenings and stimulating discussions.”

Lauren Cohen, Director of Programming, added, “We are thrilled to present this amazing selection of diverse and captivating films in Miami. With films from over 30 countries and almost half directed by women, this lineup showcases works from prestigious festivals worldwide, as well as impressive pieces from emerging filmmakers making their debuts. We take immense pride in offering a lineup that will truly resonate with audiences as we celebrate the very best in world cinema.”

The festival will feature three Marquee presentations with directors participating in Q&A sessions, including “Dear Jassi,” directed by Tarsem Singh, “Sing Sing,” and Shira Piven’s “The Performance.” Michael Showalter’s “The Idea of You” will serve as the centerpiece screening, starring Anne Hathaway and Nicholas Galitzine. A preview night screening before the festival will showcase “Wicked Little Letters” starring Olivia Colman and Jesse Buckley.

Cash prizes are up for grabs at the festival, including the Marimbas award for narrative features, the Made in MIA award for films produced in South Florida, the Jordan Ressler First Feature Award, and the Documentary Achievement Award.