The fourth day of the SXSW Film Festival saw more acquisitions and film premieres.
The day began with a purchase by FilmBuff. The company bought the rights for a documentary entitled "Last Hijack." The company stated that the film will be released on demand and in theaters in the summer. The film is directed by Tommy Pallotta and Femk Wolting and features animated re-creations.
The films that premiered at the festival included "Wild Canaries" by Lawrence Michael Levine and Sophia Takal, which scored mixed reviews. "Far too eventful, plot-driven and frankly fun to be classified as mumblecore, 'Canaries' can only build on Levine's audience; it could catch on with savvy indie filmgoers, particularly those with an affection for the genre being saluted," wrote Justin Chang from Variety.
Kate Walsh of the Playlist gave the film a B- and wrote, "Ultimately, 'Wild Canaries' doesn't quite achieve the considerable expectations that it sets for itself."
Meanwhile, "Predestination," starring Ethan Hawke, obtained rave reviews. "Graced by an extraordinary breakout performance from Aussie newcomer Sarah Snook, 'Predestination' is likely fated for a minor arthouse reception at best, but there will be plenty of cultists willing to indulge its heady and rarefied approach," wrote Justin Chang from Variety.
Henry Barnes from the Guardian gave the film three stars out of five and stated, "The Spierig brothers show off a classy, if needlessly complex sci-fi that showcases a brilliant performance from newcomer Sarah Snook."
The last film to premiere was "The Possibilities are Endless," which received great reviews. Andrew Barker from Variety called it, "A remarkably artful portrait of a Scottish musician's road to recovery following two massive strokes."
NSA leaker Edward Snowden was featured in a press conference via a live conference; he still remains in Moscow. The former NSA contractor faces felony charges in the USA after revealing the agency's mass surveillance program by leaking documents to media outlets. During the hour-long conference call Snowden revealed that he had no regrets about leaking the information.
Lena Dunham also appeared in a press conference where she spoke about sexism and ratings. She spoke of her tenacity and work ethic which she said led her to success. She also discussed applying for the SXSW festival one year, the experience of having her film "Tiny Furniture" selected for the festival, and how unpredictable the festival circuit could be. She said there are currently no projects in the studio system that she thinks are right for her, but she hopes she can change the role of women in Hollywood.
One of the most important film festivals in the U.S., the SXSW Film Festival offers many filmmakers their big break into the industry. Recently, Destin Cretton's "Short Term 12" was one of the most successful films at the festival, winning the Grand Jury Prize. "Gimme the Lott" was also a huge hit and even premiered at the Cannes Film Festival.
The festival runs through March 16 and will hand out a Grand Jury Prize at the end of the event.
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