Telluride Film Festival 2024: A Star-Studded Lineup of Oscar Contenders

The 51st Telluride Film Festival is set to kick off on Friday, August 30th, with a star-studded lineup of films, many of which are already being touted as potential Oscar contenders. The Colorado gathering, alongside the concurrent Venice and upcoming Toronto film festivals, marks the official start of the six-month-long Oscar season.

While Telluride keeps its selections close to the vest, it just announced its complete lineup, much to the excitement of industry insiders and movie buffs alike. The festival is known for its eclectic mix of films, including world premieres, documentaries, and revivals. This year, there's something for everyone, from political thrillers to heartwarming comedies, musical biopics to thought-provoking documentaries.

A Glimpse into the Lineup

One of the most anticipated films is Edward Berger’s papal thriller Conclave, which follows the intense drama that unfolds when the Pope unexpectedly dies, and the cardinals are forced to elect a new leader. The film has already garnered buzz for its gripping storyline and captivating performances.

Another film that is generating considerable excitement is Saturday Night, a Jason Reitman ode to the 1975 first episode of SNL. The film explores the behind-the-scenes chaos and comedic brilliance that went into that legendary night.

For those seeking a more soulful cinematic experience, The Piano Lesson, a film version of August Wilson’s acclaimed stage play, is a must-see. The Washington family affair boasts a stellar cast, with Denzel Washington as producer, Malcolm Washington as director, and John David Washington as the lead actor.

Docs and Musicals

The festival also features a strong documentary lineup, including Carville: Winning Is Everything, Stupid! which chronicles the life of legendary Democratic political consultant James Carville. The film promises to be a fascinating and insightful look into the world of politics.

For those who appreciate a good musical, there are several films that will satisfy. Better Man, directed by Michael Gracey (the director of The Greatest Showman), tells the story of Robbie Williams’s life and career. The End, from Joshua Oppenheimer, adds song and dance to a story about a wealthy family surviving the end of the world in an underground bunker, starring Tilda Swinton and Michael Shannon. And Piece by Piece, an autobiographical film by Pharrell Williams, uses a combo of Lego animation and documentary elements from Oscar-winning director Morgan Neville.

A Tribute to Saoirse Ronan

Telluride is not only about showcasing new films. The festival also honors distinguished figures in cinema. This year, the festival will present Silver Medallion tributes to Saoirse Ronan, Oscar-winning editor Thelma Schoonmaker, and French filmmaker Jacques Audiard. Ronan is being honored for her incredible work in the drama The Outrun, which she also produced.

The Festival's Impact

The Telluride Film Festival has a long history of showcasing films that go on to have successful awards campaigns. Last year, The Holdovers, Nyad, and All of Us Strangers all premiered at Telluride and received numerous Oscar nominations. This year's lineup promises to be no different, and festival attendees are sure to get a glimpse of the films that will be vying for awards come Oscar night.

Hopeful and Thoughtful

Despite the challenging times we live in, the Telluride Film Festival offers a glimmer of hope. As Julie Huntsinger, executive director of the festival, explains, the films “reflect back a vein of hopefulness, at least, that this art wants people to have a reason for living again.”

A Time for Discovery

Whether you’re a seasoned film buff or a casual moviegoer, the Telluride Film Festival offers an incredible opportunity to discover new films and filmmakers. With a diverse lineup and a focus on quality, Telluride is a must-visit for any movie lover.