On May 2, the Writers Guild of America went on strike in hopes of raising wages for their members. On July 14, the American actors’ union, SAG-AFTRA also went on strike, calling out production companies for failing to provide actors with livable wages. In lieu of the joint strike, many production companies halted film select releases and productions. A24 stands as one of the few companies that continues to produce movies while meeting the unions’ demands. To bring back hope for film releases, The Daily Texan compiled a list of A24 films releasing this year.
Priscilla
Based on Priscilla Presely’s memoir, “Elvis and Me,” Sofia Coppola’s “Priscilla” aims to explore Elvis and Priscilla’s complex marriage through Priscilla’s youthful gaze. As Coppola portrays how fame operates within love, she explores Priscilla’s realization that Elvis’ glorified status differed from his actual self. Performances from Jacob Elordi as Elvis and Cailee Spaeny in the titular role make for a promising depiction of the deeply intricate bond between the two lovers. The film will show in theaters this October.
Stop Making Sense
Celebrating the 40th anniversary of Talking Heads’ live album release and concert film, A24’s re-release of “Stop Making Sense” excites fans of the disbanded music group. The re-release, remastered with a 4k restoration, makes for a high-quality viewing experience. Because of their complicated falling out, the band’s Q&A reunion at the film’s international premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival lends an extra sense of anticipation. The Q&A will occur this Monday, and the film’s U.S. release in IMAX theaters will take place on Sept. 22.
The Zone of Interest
Johnathon Glazer’s “The Zone of Interest” takes on a strikingly different approach to a Holocaust narrative. Commandant Rudolf Höss (Christian Friedel) of the Auschwitz concentration camp and his idyllic family live in close proximity to the camp. Yet, as the family tends to day-to-day activities, the reality of WWII intrudes on the tranquility of their life. Set to release on Dec. 8, 2023, the film comments on the privilege of blissful ignorance many hold during brutal war.
All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt
Raven Jackson’s directorial debut tackles the complex inner struggle of Mack, a woman living in Mississippi. The film follows the minute details of her life through decades of grief, heartbreak and friendship. Jackson opts for limited dialogue, instead emphasizing captivating imagery and resonant sound that manifests a spiritual connection to the natural elements of Mack’s surroundings. Through a variety of cinematic elements, the film, set to release this year, explores themes of maturation.
