The Atlanta Film Festival began back in 1977 and since then has grown into one of the largest and longest-running film festivals in the country. Each year thousands of people attend events to view the best new independent, documentary, international, animated, and short films.
Some of this year’s film highlights include:
Are You Glad I’m Here – This world premiere by female director Noor Gharzeddine follows the story of Kirsten, a brazen American post-grad, who befriends her next-door neighbor, Nadine, an intelligent mother relegated to full-time Beirut housewife. The greater the unlikely friendship grows, the harder it becomes for the women to dismiss the obvious abuse and neglect of Nadine’s husband. As the final days of Kirsten’s life in Beirut draw to a close, Nadine must face her husband and settle things once and for all.
Blindspotting – Directed by Carlos López Estrada, this film stars Collin (Daveed Diggs) must make it through his final three days of probation for a chance at a new beginning. He and his troublemaking childhood best friend, Miles (Rafael Casal), work as movers and are forced to watch their old neighborhood become a trendy spot in the rapidly gentrifying Bay Area. When a life-altering event causes Collin to miss his mandatory curfew, the two men struggle to maintain their friendship as the changing social landscape exposes their differences.
Cardinals – Directed by Grayson Moore & Aidan Shipley, Cardinals explores the store of Valerie. She has just returned home from a prison sentence served for a drunk driving accident that cost her neighbor his life. All Valerie wants is to return to a normal life with her husband and two daughters, but when her victim’s son shows up at her door it becomes clear that the past is not behind her. His lingering suspicions cast doubt on her motivations – was his father’s death an accident after all?
Clara’s Ghost – Clara Reynolds is the under-appreciated matriarch of a family in the spotlight. Her husband is an aging comedian that is beginning to recognize his career may be behind him and her daughters are a pair of former child stars attempting to claim a place in the industry as adults. When the family reunites at their home in rural New England, Clara’s long tradition of being relegated to the sidelines drives her to a breaking point. Desperate for connection, Clara finally finds it with the ghost of a woman who only has eyes for her. Clara’s Ghost is directed by Bridey Elliot.
For more information about the Atlanta Film Festival, a full schedule, or to purchase tickets click here.