The South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in 2025 showcased a remarkable lineup of films and television projects, spanning various genres from horror to comedy and documentaries. This multi-disciplinary event, known for its extensive coverage of film, TV, music, virtual reality, comedy, and technology, often presents an overwhelming array of choices. However, IndieWire's team meticulously sifted through the offerings to highlight 15 standout projects. Among these were star-studded productions like Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg’s satire “The Studio” and Christopher Landon’s thriller “Drop,” alongside independent films such as Jing Ai Ng’s art crime thriller “Forge.” The festival also featured compelling documentaries, including Michael Bay’s parkour saga “We Are Storror” and the reptile extermination tale “The Python Hunt.” Positioned uniquely on the festival calendar, SXSW aids films in building momentum post-Sundance or before the fall festival circuit, with some gaining traction in future awards races.
Exploring the Highlights of SXSW 2025
In the vibrant expanse of Austin, Texas, during the culturally rich spring season, the SXSW festival unveiled its most anticipated line-up. Key projects included “Clown in a Cornfield,” Eli Craig’s horror-comedy that delves into the sinister secrets of a small town obsessed with corn syrup. Another notable piece was Christopher Landon’s “Drop,” a gripping psychological thriller set in a chic Chicago restaurant. André Gaines’ “The Dutchman” brought André Holland’s stellar acting to the forefront, exploring themes of infidelity and racial dynamics in modern Manhattan. Matthew Shear’s directorial debut, “Fantasy Life,” offered a neurotic narrative about privilege and personal growth among New York’s creative class. Grace Lee and Patty Ahn’s documentary, “Forever We Are Young,” celebrated the global BTS fanbase, showcasing their social impact beyond music fandom. Jing Ai Ng’s “Forge” introduced audiences to the world of fine art forgery, while Ben Leonberg’s “Good Boy” explored supernatural pet phenomena. Brwa Vahabpour’s “My Uncle Jens” provided a poignant look at family ties and migration struggles, and Matt Johnson’s “Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie” honored long-standing friendships through humor. Xander Robins’ “The Python Hunt” documented eccentric snake hunters in Florida’s Everglades, Amy Wang’s “Slanted” examined high school body horror, Jamie Coughlin Silverman and Gabriel Silverman’s “The Spies Among Us” delved into geopolitical intrigue, Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg’s “The Studio” satirized Hollywood, Chad Hartigan’s “The Threesome” navigated modern romance, and Michael Bay’s “We Are Storror” chronicled the adventures of a renowned parkour team.
As a journalist covering this year's SXSW festival, I am struck by the immense creativity and diversity displayed across all genres. The films not only entertain but also provoke thought, challenging societal norms and pushing artistic boundaries. They remind us of the power of storytelling to connect people globally, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. For viewers, these premieres offer more than just entertainment; they provide insights into human experiences, encouraging empathy and understanding. Indeed, the selections from SXSW 2025 exemplify how cinema continues to evolve, reflecting our ever-changing world while maintaining its timeless allure.