Red carpets, global movie premieres, bands from around the world and innovative creators took over Austin this past week for the 40th South by Southwest festival. Running from March 12 through March 18, the festival had no shortage of programming, and Daily Texan photographers spread across the city to capture the biggest moments. From country singer Dylan Gossett’s surprise pop-up and Noah Kahan’s unannounced concert to California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s comments alluding to a future presidential run, here are some of our favorite moments captured by Daily Texan photographers.
Additionally, SXSW held over 354 screenings, 300 live showcases and 700 sessions. Throughout the week, The Daily Texan’s Life&Arts staff attended many of these events, compiling a list of their five favorite moments from the festival.
Larry David’s “Wasting Time” panel with Jeff Schaffer
David’s quick wit and sheer comedic timing throughout the panel showcased his place in the world of comedy. As a comedy veteran, David answered every question as if it were a joke, giving the audience something to laugh about. What made this panel even greater was the Q&A from members of the audience, where David took even the most serious questions and responded lightheartedly with a sarcastic remark.
“Chili Finger” red carpet
From burning down a barn during filming to serving chili to fans at SXSW, the cast of “Chili Finger” shared funny anecdotes with The Daily Texan on the red carpet, including John Goodman, Judy Greer and co-directors Edd Benda and Stephen Helstad. Helstad explained that the film is only loosely based on the 2005 Wendy’s “chili finger” incident, and that the crew took it as inspiration for what the rest of the story would look like.
Jack Johnson’s “SURFILMUSIC”
Johnson’s laid-back energy showed full force in his new documentary, which included inside interviews, looks into his earliest days surfing and private jam sessions. Working with longtime collaborators, Johnson created a film that doesn’t feel like non-fiction, but an inspiring story about a group of friends who pursued everything they dreamed up together.
Ketch Secor’s underrated set
With long lines and big-name performances taking over the city, Ketch Secor’s performance on Monday night provided a unique moment of intimacy within the ever-growing festival. Playing alongside fellow Old Crow Medicine Show co-founder, Christopher “Critter” Fuqua, Secor brought some homegrown bluegrass and tales of days of yore to a sparse crowd, making for a true hidden gem among the week’s busy schedule.
“Cornbread Mafia” screening and after party
Amidst an infinite film lineup, documentary “Cornbread Mafia” featured an especially heartfelt and familial quality. With the Cornbread Mafia members in attendance, the screening allowed attendees to witness the story alongside the people who lived it, and the after party with the cast and crew guaranteed a night full of mingling, laughter and legal THC.
