SCAD Savannah Film Festival Adds ‘Frankenstein,’ ‘Hamnet,’ and ‘Bugonia’

The SCAD Savannah Film Festival has announced its exciting lineup for the 2025 edition. Notable additions include Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein,” Chloe Zhao’s “Hamnet,” and Yorgos Lanthimos’ “Bugonia.” These films enhance a slate that already features major productions. This year marks the 28th annual event, which runs from October 25 to November 1.
Festival Opening and Special Presentations
The festival kicks off on October 25 with “Eternity,” a drama directed by David Freyne. This A24 film stars Elizabeth Olsen, Miles Teller, and Callum Turner. The narrative explores an afterlife scenario where souls have one week to choose their eternal fates. Following the screening, Miles Teller will receive the Distinguished Performance Award, presented by Oscar winner Da’Vine Joy Randolph.
Gala Presentations
The festival will feature three main gala presentations:
- Opening Night: “Eternity” (Oct. 25)
- Centerpiece Gala: “Song Sung Blue” starring Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman (Oct. 30)
- Closing Night: “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” directed by Rian Johnson (Nov. 1)
Film Lineup and Screenings
A total of 167 films will screen at the festival, comprising:
- 56 narrative feature films
- 15 documentary feature films
- 96 short films
Among these, there will be seven world premieres and three U.S. premieres. Additional notable selections include:
- “Frankenstein” (Netflix, dir. Guillermo del Toro)
- “Hamnet” (Focus Features, dir. Chloé Zhao)
- “Bugonia” (Focus Features, dir. Yorgos Lanthimos)
Panels and Discussions
The festival will also host various panels focusing on industry insights and the film creation process. Noteworthy discussions include:
- “Wicked: For Good” featuring Director Jon M. Chu
- The “Behind Their Lens” and “Below the Line” series
These sessions will celebrate the contributions of directors, producers, and other essential members of the film community.
A Celebration of Cinema
The SCAD Savannah Film Festival serves as a key event on the Academy Awards festival circuit. Over its history, the festival has screened more than 225 Academy Award-nominated films and has honored nearly 200 prominent figures in the film industry.
SCAD President and Founder Paula Wallace emphasizes the festival’s role in nurturing emerging filmmakers and creating opportunities for students. “Come for the Oscar-bound premieres and stay for the splendor of the South’s most cinematic city,” she invites.
With a variety of film screenings and events, the SCAD Savannah Film Festival promises to be a remarkable celebration of cinematic artistry this October.