Fantastic Fest is celebrating its 20th anniversary with films from around the world. Fantastic Fest’s 20th anniversary lineup features 45 World Premieres, 15 International and North American Premieres, and 12 U.S. Premieres. If you have attended Fantastic Fest before, you know what great cinema to anticipate, and even if this is your first time attending, know that you will not leave disappointed in what you are about to see. The unforgettable events and magnificent special guests are also what make this fest so exciting. Celebrate at the Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar in Austin, TX, from September 18th- 25th, 2025.
Here are a few selections of the films at the festival:
DECORADO – Alberto Vázquez blends biting humor with haunting beauty in a noir-tinged film that presents a clear critique of our era’s illusions and the artificial structures that shape our lives. A Spanish-Portuguese co-production, this darkly comedic odyssey remains faithful to the original short’s spirit while also deepening its poignant reflection on social control, manufactured reality, and the quest for authentic human connection. Country: Spain World Premiere (SARA LOPO) FantasticFest.com
SILVER SCREAMERS – A funny, heartwarming, and deeply touching documentary that shines a light on an often-overlooked age group. Every senior involved brings a wealth of experience, creativity, and enthusiasm to the table. This film is a celebration of vitality, community, and the idea that it’s never too late to try something new. You’ll leave the theater smiling—and with a new favorite senior in your heart. (ANNICK MAHNERT)
CRAZY OLD LADY – Argentine director Martín Mauregui masterfully uses genre to plunge the audience into the perverse delirium of a woman whose past is as dark as the history of his country. Produced by J.A. Bayona (THE ORPHANAGE, SOCIETY OF THE SNOW), who came on board after being blown away by the script, the film stars Spanish legend Carmen Maura alongside Argentine actor Daniel Hendler, who suffers at her hands. CRAZY OLD LADY will make you squirm in your seat while subtly exploring themes of dementia and Argentina’s haunting past. Shudder (World Premiere) (ANNICK MAHNERT)
Here is a list of other films that I find interesting after reading the synopsis, and I look forward to viewing:
APPOFENIACS (North American Premiere), THE CREEP TAPES – Shudder (Season 2 Premiere), DOLLY (World Premiere), HONEY BUNCH (North American Premiere), IF I HAD LEGS I’D KICK YOU – A24 (World Premiere), MOTHER OF FLIES – Shudder (U.S. Premiere), NIGHT PATROL – RLJE Films & Shudder (World Premiere), THE PLAGUE – Independent Film Company (North American Premiere), SHELBY OAKS – NEON (U.S. Premiere), SISU: ROAD TO REVENGE – Sony Pictures’ Stage 6 Films & Screen Gems (World Premiere), REFLECTION IN A DEAD DIAMOND – Shudder (Texas Premiere), V/H/S/HALLOWEEN – Shudder (World Premiere), WHISTLE – Independent Films Company & Shudder (World Premiere).
For additional information about the festival, badges/tickets, and/or the films, visit fantasticfest.com
Source: FantasticFest.com