LILLY

USA | 2024 | 108

Patricia Clarkson shines in this rousing profile of courage as Lilly Ledbetter, the Alabama Goodyear factory worker whose tireless fight for women’s equal pay went all the way to the Supreme Court. Like <i>Norma Rae</i> and <i>Erin Brockovich</i>, Lilly packs a sweet punch for justice.

THERE’S STILL TOMORROW

Italy/USA | 2023 | 118

A box office phenomenon in its native Italy, this surprising, humorous, and empowering musical melodrama follows an industrious working-class woman in post-WWII Rome as she rises above domestic violence to forge a brighter future for her daughter.

WALTZING WITH BRANDO

USA/Tahiti/French Polynesia | 2024 | 107

Based on a true story, Los Angeles architect Bernard Judge (Jon Heder) arrives in Tahiti for a new project and finds himself collaborating with none other than counterculture icon Marlon Brando (Billy Zane). Inspired by the beauty of the local atolls, the two embark on establishing a groundbreaking eco-resort.

MILLERS IN MARRIAGE

USA | 2024 | 117

Writer/director/star Edward Burns and his knockout cast – Julianna Margulies, Gretchen Mol, Minnie Driver, Patrick Wilson, Campbell Scott, Benjamin Bratt, and Morena Baccarin – take stock of their rocky marriages and newfound desires in this rich study of life and love after 50.

THE FRIEND

USA | 2024 | 123

In this delicious adaptation of Sigrid Nunez's beloved novel, an author (Naomi Watts) inherits a Great Dane after her best friend (Bill Murray) commits suicide. This enormous (and irresistible) dog wreaks havoc on her happily solitary New York life.

BETTER MAN

USA | 2024 | 134

With electrifying visuals and a novel storytelling approach, this audacious musical biopic chronicles British pop star Robbie Williams’ wild journey from boy-band heartthrob to solo icon. Director Michael Gracey (<i>The Greatest Showman</i>) fuses wit and emotion, spotlighting Williams’ triumphs, struggles, and ultimate resurgence in unforgettable style.

SEPTEMBER 5

Germany/USA | 2024 | 94 min

Set during the 1972 Munich Summer Olympics, the film follows an American sports broadcasting team that quickly adapted from sports reporting to live coverage of a hostage situation. This decisive moment changed media coverage forever and continues to impact live news today.

LOST LADIES

India | 2023 | 123

This delightful adventure follows two young brides from arranged marriages who are mistakenly swapped during a chaotic train ride, and find their lives flipped upside down when, upon arrival, they lift their veils, revealing that each husband is now with the wrong wife.

THE PENGUIN LESSONS

United Kingdom/Spain | 2024 | 110

A deliciously wry Steve Coogan teams up with the director of <i>The Full Monty</i> in this irresistible dramedy about a disaffected English schoolteacher in militaristic Argentina, whose life – and those of his spoiled pupils – is transformed when he rescues and adopts an adorable penguin.

THE WAY, MY WAY

Australia | 2024 | 98

Stubborn and cantankerous Australian director Bill Bennett adapts his own bestselling memoir chronicling his experience walking the 800-kilometer Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail across northern Spain just months before his 60th birthday.

ODD FISH

Iceland/Finland/Czech Republic | 2024 | 104

In this endearing dramedy, two childhood friends receive an opportunity to keep their seafood restaurant in the picturesque Westfjords open year-round. When one comes out as a trans woman, their long-standing friendship is tested, revealing new perspectives on life and identity.

EVERYBODY LOVES TOUDA

Morocco | 2024 | 102

Inspired by the fierce female poets who came before her, small-town chanteuse Touda dreams of becoming a true Sheikha (a traditional Moroccan performer). Tired of performing in provincial bars under men’s lustful gazes, she sets her sights on Casablanca.

SHAMBHALA

Nepal | 2024 | 150

In a stunningly beautiful polyandrous village, pregnant Pema faces harmful gossip when her main husband, Tashi, fails to return from a trading trip. Determined to set things right, she embarks on a journey with her other husband, the young monk Karma, to find him.

PAPER FLOWERS

USA | 2024 | 101

What would you do if you had six months to live? At 22, Peace Corps volunteer and USC graduate Shalin Shah (Kapil Talwalkar) chooses to make a difference. Based on a true story, Shah's viral manifesto urges people to cherish every moment, transforming his passion for life into a lasting movement.

A NICE INDIAN BOY

USA/Canada | 2023 | 99

In this hilarious rom-com, Naveen (Karan Soni) introduces his white fiancé Jay (Tony Award winner Jonathan Groff) to his conservative Indian parents, who must reconcile their traditional values with their son’s love while planning the perfect traditional Indian wedding to honor two gay men.

SEX

Norway/USA | 2024 | 125

Two men in heterosexual marriages confront challenges to their understanding of sexuality, gender, and identity in this formally inventive comedy that deconstructs masculinity, explores the complexities of human relationships, and asks the question: Is sex with another man cheating?

WALK WITH ME

USA | 2024 | 89

In 2019, art director Charlie Hess was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. In this tender and clear-eyed film, his wife, acclaimed casting director Heidi Levitt, chronicles the metamorphosis of their marriage over the next four years as she becomes his loving caretaker, learning to adapt to an ever-changing reality.

FROM GROUND ZERO

Palestine | 2024 | 115

Featuring the collective work of 22 filmmakers, this omnibus offers a view of life in Gaza during the ongoing war with Israel. Showcasing unique perspectives – from non-fiction and narrative to animation and experimental forms – this collaborative effort yields an expansive and powerful result.

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Congratulations to the <i>From Ground Zero</i> team on making the shortlist for Best International Feature Film for the 97th Academy Awards!

THE DIAMOND KING

USA | 2024 | 90

For over 20 years, Dick Perez was the official artist of the Baseball Hall of Fame, painting the game's history and every Hall of Famer – a project he continues into his 80s. Director Marq Evans (<i>Claydream</i>, PSIFF 2022) tells the fascinating story of this childhood immigrant whose portraits transformed the commemoration of America's most iconic pastime.

TO KILL A MONGOLIAN HORSE

Malaysia/Hong Kong/South Korea/Japan/Saudi Arabia/Thailand/USA | 2024 | 97

As a centuries-old way of life fades in Mongolia, a herdsman leads a dual existence – tending his ranch by day and performing horse tricks for audiences by night. This intimate, award-winning drama is inspired by lead actor Saina’s real-life journey between the horse show world and his own personal challenges.

THE STAMP THIEF

USA/Poland/Germany | 2025 | 100

A Hollywood filmmaker learns of a treasure trove of priceless stamps stolen by a Nazi officer from concentration camp victims and buried in a house in Poland. Employing an <i>Argo</i>-like fake-movie ruse, he and his team set out to find the treasure, but run into complications they never expected.

COUNTED OUT

USA | 2024 | 91

This eye-opening panorama persuasively argues that we must change how we teach math in order to tackle the significant challenges we face – racial and income inequality, climate change, and political polarization. Addressing the issues of the future, the film offers an empowering new equation.

ARCADIA

Greece/Bulgaria/USA | 2024 | 99

Set in a ghostly, off-season Greek resort town, this haunted tale of grief and lost love begins when a retired doctor and his wife are summoned to identify the victim of a tragic car accident. What follows is a mysterious quest in a slippery realm where the dead seem to coexist with the living.

COME CLOSER

Israel | 2024 | 107

The feature debut from Tom Nesher (daughter of Avi Nesher, subject of the documentary His Own Way, also at the festival) is a fierce drama inspired by family tragedy. When her beloved brother dies, Eden (Lia Elalouf) takes desperate measures to fill the void. Winner of multiple awards, including the Viewpoints Award at Tribeca.

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Note: Filmmaker Tom Nesher is one of <a href="https://variety.com/2024/film/news/variety-10-directors-to-watch-2025-1236213938/" target="_blank">Variety's 10 Directors to Watch for 2025</a>!

I DON’T UNDERSTAND YOU

USA/Italy | 2023 | 96

As Dom (Nick Kroll) and Cole (Andrew Rannells) await their adoption's finalization, they embark on a romantic Italian getaway. But when their car breaks down en route to a private dinner, their night quickly devolves into mayhem and miscommunication in this outrageous comic thriller.

GROUP THERAPY

USA | 2024 | 86

Laugh through the pain with some of the world’s top comedians as they gather to share personal stories at the intersection of comedy and mental health. Led by Neil Patrick Harris, these illuminating conversations offer catharsis, resonance, and plenty of gut-busting humor.

BILLY PRESTON: THAT’S THE WAY GOD PLANNED IT

USA | 2024 | 104

This mesmerizing, music-rich documentary charts the dazzling rise and tormented fall of keyboard genius and conflicted gay artist Billy Preston. Follow his journey from gospel roots in the 1950s to inspired collaborations with the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, to the 1970s in Topanga Canyon.

SALLY!

USA | 2024 | 96

Texas-born Sally Gearhart was a fiery, charismatic lesbian feminist, teacher, and fantasy writer. She fought alongside Harvey Milk, founded a radical, free-loving women’s commune in Northern California, and comes to vibrant life in this funny, revelatory celebration of her high-octane life.

DIANE WARREN: RELENTLESS

USA | 2024 | 92

Hollywood’s most coveted songwriter – with Beyoncé, Cher, Lady Gaga, Celine Dion, and Toni Braxton among her many devotees – writes heart-rending love songs but prefers animals to people. She’s worth billions but isn’t interested in spending it. Meet the prickly, fascinating musical poet who’s been nominated for 15 Oscars® – and never won.

SOULEYMANE’S STORY

France | 2024 | 92

Exhausted by the grueling Parisian gig economy, undocumented Guinean immigrant and bicycle courier Souleymane (2024 Cannes Un Certain Regard Best Actor winner Abou Sangaré) races against time to prepare for his asylum interview in this gripping social thriller.

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Congratulations to the <i>Souleymane's Story</i> team on receiving the Bridging the Borders Award at the 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival!

LA SUPREMA

Colombia | 2023 | 84

In a forgotten Colombian town, a teenage girl dreams of becoming a boxer. When she learns her uncle will be fighting for the world title on live television, she and her community do whatever it takes to watch the event and win their own existential battle against obscurity.

HEADHUNTING TO BEATBOXING

India | 2024 | 62

Once engulfed in violence, the northeastern Indian state of Nagaland transforms through the healing power of music. Produced by Oscar®-winning composer A.R. Rahman (<i>Slumdog Millionaire</i>), this showcase of the Naga tribes’ sonic heritage celebrates their resilience and creative spirit in a stunning visual landscape.

DROWNING DRY

Lithuania | 2024 | 88

This subtle, powerful drama depicts a family tragedy through shifting perspectives and timelines. During what was meant to be a peaceful weekend in the countryside, two sisters on summer holiday with their families experience a life-altering event.

WHATEVER IT TAKES

United Kingdom/USA | 2024 | 93

This jaw-dropping true crime documentary thriller begins with the online harassment of a journalist in 2019. As the threats grow more ominous and bizarre, the FBI enters the scene, and this wild yarn broadens to expose a conspiracy with chilling implications for us all.

SACRAMENTO

USA | 2024 | 89

In this crackling buddy comedy, Rickey (director/co-writer Michael Angarano) reunites with estranged friend Glenn (Michael Cera) for an impulsive road trip from Los Angeles to California's capital. At vastly different stages in life, the two men reluctantly – and hilariously – confront fatherhood, fragile masculinity, and self-discovery.

KNEECAP

Ireland | 2024 | 105

Based on a politically charged true story, two young Irish men join forces with a local teacher to form the hip-hop group Kneecap, sparking a movement around the Irish language. Featuring the real-life Kneecap members playing themselves, this riotous anthem crackles with ripped-from-the-headlines energy and rebellious spirit.

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Congratulations to the <i>Kneecap</i> team on making the shortlist for Best International Feature Film for the 97th Academy Awards!

DESERT ANGEL

USA | 2024 | 87

In the unforgiving Sonoran Desert, Rafael Larraenza leads a volunteer organization dedicated to searching for migrants risking their lives to cross into the United States. When a Salvadoran woman reports her son is missing, Rafael sets off to find him in the sweltering borderlands.

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Congratulations to the <i>Desert Angel</i> team on receiving the Desert Views Award Special Mention at the 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Palestine/Germany/France/Italy/Qatar | 2024 | 123

Told in four chapters, this lively, naturalistic, award-winning drama follows a family of Palestinian citizens of Israel in Haifa. Through his characters, Oscar®-nominated director Scandar Copti (<i>Ajami</i>) explores deep divides between genders and ethnicities while exposing the traditions and values that shape their lives. Best Film, Thessaloniki.

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Congratulations to the <i>Happy Holidays</i> team on receiving the Bridging the Borders Award Special Mention at the 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival!

JULIE KEEPS QUIET

Belgium | 2024 | 97

As the star player at an elite tennis club, high-schooler Julie’s life revolves around the game she loves. When her coach is suspended following an investigation, the players are urged to speak up. Julie, however, chooses to stay silent.

FLOW

Latvia | 2024 | 84

After a flood destroys their homes, a courageous, resilient cat finds itself on a boat with various species in this profound animated meditation on the fragility of the environment and the importance of friendship and community. Rated PG.

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Congratulations to the <i>Flow</i> team on making the shortlist for Best International Feature Film for the 97th Academy Awards!

THE DAY THE EARTH BLEW UP: A LOONEY TUNES MOVIE

USA | 2024 | 90

In the first-ever fully animated feature-length 'Looney Tunes' movie created for a cinema audience, Porky Pig and Daffy Duck become Earth’s only hope when mind-controlling aliens attack! Rated PG.

THE MOUNTAIN

New Zealand | 2024 | 89

Led by the courageous Sam, a trio of enthusiastic young misfits embark on the quest of a lifetime to scale the majestic Mt. Taranaki and unlock its fabled healing powers. Along the way, the brave ragtag crew discovers profound truths about friendship, cultural heritage, and the thrill of adventure. This film is not yet rated.

I AM NEVENKA

Spain/Italy | 2024 | 112

Based on a true story, this riveting drama follows council member Nevenka Fernández as she is relentlessly pursued by the town mayor, a man used to getting what he wants. Her decision to report him transforms her courageous fight into Spain's first #MeToo case.

SUJO

Mexico | 2024 | 126

Sujo's childhood is marked by devastating events that test his morals. When he becomes a teenager, he faces a choice between repeating his family's history or breaking free from an unwanted heritage. This hopeful tale explores alternative paths to violence – challenging, uncertain, and, even if only slightly, possibly achievable.

DRIVE BACK HOME

Canada | 2024 | 103

Inspired by a true story, this 1970s-set dramedy follows a gruff New Brunswick plumber (Charlie Creed-Miles) as he reluctantly drives to Toronto to bail his estranged, gay brother (Alan Cumming) out of jail. Forced together, the brothers face their differences on an unforgettable journey home.

JOHN CRANKO

Germany | 2024 | 135

Driven by a quest for perfection, John Cranko (Sam Riley) is the toast of 1950s London until he's prosecuted for homosexuality. Recruited by the Stuttgart Ballet, the manic workaholic revitalizes the company and builds a world-renowned ensemble while grappling with destructive urges in this dance-infused tribute to the virtuoso choreographer.

TRIFOLE

Italy/South Africa/USA | 2024 | 100

In this bittersweet portrait of a vanishing rural way of life, Dalia travels to Piedmont to care for her aging grandfather Igor, an expert forager. Armed with his field notes and loyal dog Birba, she searches for a prizewinning truffle to save his home.

EVERY LITTLE THING

Australia | 2024 | 93

Up in the Hollywood Hills, the remarkable and empathetic Terry Masear tends to wounded hummingbirds, nursing them back to health. This joyful, gorgeously shot portrait teaches us as much about these fragile, amazing creatures as it does about the tenacity of the human heart.

A SUDDEN GLIMPSE TO DEEPER THINGS

United Kingdom | 2024 | 88

Many may not have heard of British artist Wilhelmina Barns-Graham, but filmmaker Mark Cousins’ personal, provocative testament to this remarkable woman raises the question of why she isn’t a household name. In a rare feat for a documentary, this poetic portrait took the top prize at the 2024 Karlovy Vary Film Festival.

QUISLING – THE FINAL DAYS

Norway | 2024 | 141

Both a bold historical drama and a penetrating psychological study of a delusional authoritarian, the latest from director Erik Poppe (<i>The King’s Choice</i>, PSIFF 2016) revisits Germany’s occupation of Norway and its aftermath through the story of wartime puppet leader and Nazi collaborator Vidkun Quisling.

PARTHENOPE

Italy | 2024 | 137

From Oscar®-winning director Paolo Sorrentino (<i>The Great Beauty</i>, PSIFF 2014), this enchanting treatise on cinematic beauty unfolds in Naples, following the titular heroine whose irresistible allure captivates everyone around her as she embarks on a journey to discover her place in the world.

THE PENGUIN LESSONS

United Kingdom/Spain | 2024 | 110

A deliciously wry Steve Coogan teams up with the director of <i>The Full Monty</i> in this irresistible dramedy about a disaffected English schoolteacher in militaristic Argentina, whose life – and those of his spoiled pupils – is transformed when he rescues and adopts an adorable penguin.