The Stony Brook Film Festival has announced its full schedule for the 30th anniversary event, which will take place from July 17 to July 26 at the Staller Center for the Arts. This year's festival features a diverse lineup of 36 films from 19 countries, including world premieres and U.S. debuts.
Each evening, attendees can expect two feature films preceded by short films on a large 40-foot screen, with opportunities for Q&A sessions with filmmakers and cast members. The festival begins with the East Coast Premiere of "The Ties That Bind Us," exploring themes of family through a unique storyline.
Family dynamics are central to several other films in this year’s selection. These include "Way Home," about a father's effort to rescue his son from Syria; "Nawi," focusing on a Kenyan girl's struggle against her father's wishes; "Mazel Tov," a comedic tale set in Argentina; and "The Umesh Chronicles" from India.
American independent cinema is also represented with three dramas: "Westhampton" featuring Finn Wittrock, JT Walker's "La Gloria," and Joel Alfonso Vargas's "Mad Bills to Pay."
Other notable films include the French Western/horror/mystery "Animale" and the biopic "Midas Man" about Beatles manager Brian Epstein. The festival concludes with Gala Gracia’s debut film, "The Remnants of You."
Passes are available for purchase, including VIP Gold Passes and Regular Passes granting access to all events over ten days. Single tickets will be on sale starting July 1.