Fantastic Fest
Austin, TX / September 2019 / fantasticfest.com
Judging from the reactions of our panelists, this Texas fixture has recovered from the misconduct issues that hung a cloud over it last year. “Let’s watch some films, shoot some guns and have some barbecue, y’all!” says one. There are lots of opportunities to do all that and more over the week-long geek bacchanal, during which the multitudinous movies (including many world premieres) screened at the Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar are just the core of the craziness overseen by director Kristen Bell. “It’s a party every day! Rowdy crowds, rowdy events,” says another panelist, and a third adds, “When you hear about Texas hospitality, Fantastic Fest takes it to the next level. This is a festival that not only loves its movies, but also showcases the joys of karaoke on an equal plane. Where else would you see Elijah Wood, RZA, Nacho Vigalondo, and Eugenio Mira on the same stage singing ‘I Gotta Feeling’ by the Black Eyed Peas?”
Fest-goers take the edge off their fright film viewing experience with drinks at Fantastic Fest 2018’s Halloween-themed opening night party. Photograph courtesy of Fantastic Fest
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