Julia Roberts Calls ‘After The Hunt’ NY Film Festival Opening A “Top 3 Great Achievement Of My New York Life”

The 63rd annual New York Film Festival kicked off with a dazzling opening night featuring acclaimed director Luca Guadagnino, who introduced his latest psychological thriller, 'After the Hunt.' Stars Julia Roberts, Ayo Edebiri, and Andrew Garfield graced the event, showcasing the film's star power. This festival is significant as it highlights emerging talent and innovative storytelling in cinema, setting the stage for the upcoming awards season.

As the summer film festival season winds down, excitement is building for the 2026 Oscars. With the New York Film Festival starting this weekend, the race for Oscar nominations is heating up. Although we won't see the official nominations until next year, the influx of International Feature Film submissions is already setting the stage for a competitive awards season. This matters because the Oscars not only celebrate cinematic achievements but also influence trends in the film industry and highlight diverse storytelling.

The New York Film Festival is set to begin with the premiere of 'After the Hunt,' a film by Luca Guadagnino that tackles campus politics in the #MeToo era. This year's lineup features several provocative films that address state corruption and other pressing issues, making it a significant event for both filmmakers and audiences. The festival also marks the return of acclaimed actor Daniel Day-Lewis, generating excitement among fans and industry insiders alike.

Ben Stiller's new documentary, 'Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lost,' pays heartfelt tribute to his late parents, comedians Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara. The trailer reveals their remarkable marriage, highlighting both its joys and challenges. Premiering at the New York Film Festival on October 5, this film not only celebrates their legacy but also resonates with anyone who values the complexities of love and family.

Netflix has just dropped the full trailer for Kathryn Bigelow's gripping new thriller, 'A House of Dynamite,' which has already garnered rave reviews after its premiere at the 2025 Venice Film Festival. Following her acclaimed works like 'The Hurt Locker' and 'Zero Dark Thirty,' Bigelow's latest film promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. It will also be showcased at the New York Film Festival this weekend, making it a must-watch for thriller enthusiasts. This film matters because it continues Bigelow's legacy of intense storytelling and highlights the importance of cinematic experiences in today's entertainment landscape.

The psychological drama 'Lex Julia' is making waves with its international cast, featuring talents like Sweden's Christian Hillborg and Finland's Jessica Grabowsky. This film not only aims to captivate and unsettle audiences but also sparks a conversation about the Nordic brand of equality. With a strong narrative and diverse cast, it promises to be a thought-provoking experience that challenges societal norms, making it a significant addition to contemporary cinema.

Sigrid, the talented Norwegian singer-songwriter, recently shared her excitement about recording her latest album, stating that she's never had this much fun in the studio before. This revelation is significant as it highlights her growth as an artist and her ability to embrace her introverted nature while creating music that resonates with many. Fans can look forward to a fresh and vibrant sound that reflects her joyful experience during the recording process.

Judas Priest has released a charity single featuring a cover of a Black Sabbath song, with proceeds going towards Parkinson's research, a cause close to the heart of the late Ozzy Osbourne. This initiative not only honors Osbourne's legacy but also raises awareness and funds for an important health issue, making it a significant contribution to the fight against Parkinson's disease.

The upcoming Finnish series 'Sneakermania' is generating excitement as it prepares to debut its trailer. Set to air on YLE in February 2026, the eight-episode show follows teenage sneakerhead Ola, who aspires to become a fashion influencer alongside his friend Bee. This series highlights a fresh perspective from Finland, showcasing that there's more to the country than just its renowned Nordic noir genre. With its focus on youth culture and fashion, 'Sneakermania' promises to resonate with a global audience and reflects the growing influence of sneaker culture.

Andrew O'Hagan reflects on his 15-year friendship with Edna O'Brien, highlighting their shared experiences and deep bond. Their connection blossomed over time, marked by laughter and memorable moments, including a poignant trip to Ireland. O'Hagan's recollections not only celebrate O'Brien's literary legacy but also reveal the warmth and humor that defined their relationship, making it a touching tribute to friendship and creativity.

The Finnish documentary 'Sense and Sensibility' marks the feature debut of filmmaker Hanna Nordenswan, exploring the unique bond between a mother and daughter who work at a cemetery. This heartfelt film not only showcases their unconventional relationship but also won the best documentary award at the recent Finnish Film Affair. It's a significant achievement for Nordenswan and highlights the importance of storytelling in understanding life and death.