We are thrilled to announce our Opening Night Gala will be the World Premiere of J. EDGAR, directed by Clint Eastwood! The 25th Edition of AFI FEST will kick off on November 3. J. EDGAR stars Academy Award nominee Leonardo DiCaprio in the title role, along with Academy Award nominee Naomi Watts, Armie Hammer and Oscar winner Judi Dench.  It is produced by Academy Award winners Eastwood and Brian Grazer and Oscar nominee Robert Lorenz.  From an original screenplay by Oscar winner Dustin Lance Black, the film explores the public and private life of one of the most powerful, controversial and enigmatic figures of the 20th century, J. Edgar Hoover, founding director of the FBI.

For the third consecutive year, AFI FEST will continue its unprecedented offer of free tickets to all screenings, but only the Star Patron Package and Marquee Patron Package provide reserved access to the J. EDGAR world premiere Opening Night Gala.  These and other AFI FEST Patron Packages – which ensure access to sold-out galas and other high-demand films and events – are on sale now at AFI.com/AFIFEST.  The American Film Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational and cultural organization, and Patron Packages are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law.

Individual tickets to AFI FEST screenings and galas will be available to AFI members on Wednesday, October 26 in a 24-hour advance window before they become available to the general public on October 27.  In addition, AFI members receive a 10% discount on all Patron Packages.  Information about AFI membership is available at AFI.com/membership.

AFI FEST – celebrating its 25th year – will take place November 3 through 10 in Hollywood, California, at the historic Chinese Theatre, the Chinese 6 Theatres, the Egyptian Theatre and the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.