The 62nd New York Film Festival (NYFF), running from September 27 to October 14, commenced with a stirring screening of “Nickel Boys,” directed by RaMell Ross and set to release on October 25 via Amazon/MGM/Orion. Based on Colson Whitehead’s acclaimed novel, the film elicited strong applause and sparked intense discussion among attendees at Alice Tully Hall. Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, nominated for an Oscar for her role in “King Richard,” is expected to receive another nomination for her performance in this thought-provoking piece.
During the festival’s traditional after-party at Tavern on the Green, Ellis-Taylor confessed she was unable to watch her performance, leaving the theater before it concluded. NYFF director Dennis Lim emphasized the importance of the opening night in establishing the festival’s tone, expressing confidence in Ross’s vision. “This is not a feel-good movie,” Lim noted, praising its formal risks and potential to push cinematic boundaries.
The festivities drew numerous notable figures from the film industry, including Plan B’s Jeremy Kleiner, Orion’s Alana Mayo, and filmmakers such as Rebecca Miller and Barry Jenkins. Film at Lincoln Center chairman Dan Stern acknowledged the festival’s resilience during the pandemic, contrasting it with the struggles faced by other film events. This year’s festival marks the last for executive director Lesli Klainberg, who will remain involved in future events.
Over the next two weeks, the festival will showcase more than 100 films from 41 countries, many of which have made their mark at other festivals. Lim highlighted the festival’s role as an amplifier of voices reflecting current global issues, underscoring the significance of art in processing complex societal themes.
Among the standout films is Brady Corbet’s “The Brutalist,” which has garnered acclaim for its storytelling and has quickly sold out screenings. The film, a three-and-a-half-hour epic featuring Adrien Brody as a Holocaust survivor, explores themes of immigration and the American dream, presented in a classic cinematic style.
As the festival progresses, anticipation builds for the closing night film, Steve McQueen’s “Blitz,” a World War II drama set to premiere at the London Film Festival on October 9. Lim praised McQueen as one of the greatest artists of our time, expressing excitement for how he will utilize significant resources for this project.
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