Now in its 12th year, the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival and Conference is an annual celebration of film - a weeklong opportunity to view, discuss, and explore all aspects of film creation and production, from screenwriting through distribution.

For nine days in March, the SXSW Film Festival screens the best in new independent film from around the world. SXSW has gained accolades for the quality of our programming, which focuses on both emerging talent and cinematic greats. With over 180 films, including innovative narrative and documentary features; narrative, documentary, animated, and experimental shorts; music videos; and midnight films, there’s plenty to satisfy every film lover. consideration.

Sidebar Spotlight: Emerging Visions
Created last year, 2005 marks the second time SXSW has hosted the "Emerging Visions" sidebar. The section is dedicated to either first or second-time feature directors using their film to break new barriers and craft new ways to tell a story. The selections include: cl.one, Four Eyed Monsters, Highway Courtesans, Kissing on the Mouth, Mirage, Occupation: Dreamland, The Puffy Chair, and Straight Line. All of these are eligible for an Audience Award, so don't forget to cast your vote at SXSW 2005!

Sidebar Spotlight: Discoveries From Down Under
One of the feature sidebars at SXSW 2005 is the return of "Discoveries from Down Under," a collection of films from Australia and New Zealand. This will include New Zealand documentary Giving It All Away, as well as Australian narrative features Somersault, Josh Jarman, and Thunderstruck. You can find these great international films at the Dobie Theater during SXSW 2005.

The Wendell Baker Story will be the Opening Night Film of the 2005 season. Directed by Luke and Andrew Wilson, The Wendell Baker Story is an all-star comedy featuring Luke Wilson, Owen Wilson, Eva Mendes, Eddie Griffin, and many more. The Wendell Baker Story will premiere on Opening Night, March 11, 2005, at the Paramount Theater in downtown Austin.