NYFF's Artistic Director on AI, Climate Change, and Why Movies Are Unavoidably Political

NYFF's Artistic Director on AI, Climate Change, and Why Movies Are Unavoidably Political

From the surprise election of mayor Zohran Mamdani to the Knicks winning the NBA championship, it's been a time for underdog stories in the Big Apple. The New York Film Festival is continuing that trend, pulling off a coup by securing several major world premieres in a year that's been frustratingly light on festival fanfare.

NYFF starts on Sept. 25, and over the next two weeks, audiences will be the first to watch “Artificial,” Luca Guadagnino's buzzy movie about OpenAI founder Sam Altman; “A Statement,” director Tom McCarthy's starry drama about climate change; “Behemoth,” Tony Gilroy's ode to film scores led by Pedro Pascal; “14th,” Ava DuVernay's timely documentary about the 14th Amendment; and “Godzilla Minus Zero,” a kaiju sequel to Oscar-winner “Godzilla Minus One.” It's an exciting change of pace for the small-but-mighty NYFF, whose lineup is often comprised of the buzziest movies from Cannes, Venice or Toronto.

The Political Lens: How Films Reflect Our World

Many of these films tackle hot-button issues that speak to these politically fraught times. But that's not to say that everything on this year's lineup is fire and brimstone. There are fun and joyous movies, too, Lim points out, citing Jordan Firstman's heartfelt comedy “Club Kid” and Jesse Eisenberg's musical drama “The Debut.”

"I think we've proved in the last few years that we create a pretty interesting context for the launch of a film," says NYFF artistic director Dennis Lim.

This year's selection isn't just about buzz—it's about relevance. The films chosen are not only significant in their own right, but they're also reflections of the moment. In our increasingly digital and politically charged world, it's clear that cinema is no longer a refuge from reality; rather, it's becoming a mirror to our chaotic times.

Artificial Intelligence as a Cinematic Theme

One of the most anticipated entries on this year's NYFF lineup is “Artificial,” directed by Luca Guadagnino. It's a film that delves into the world of artificial intelligence through the lens of OpenAI founder Sam Altman. As Lim notes, the timing couldn't be more apt:

"It was an open conversation of whether this would do festivals. Luca is a filmmaker we have a relationship with, and I thought we would be a great launchpad for the film. This is a film that deals with a very pressing situation. AI is in the news practically daily. The film recaps this trajectory that we've been on with alarming clarity."

The movie isn't just an exploration of AI's potential, but also its implications—both positive and troubling. Guadagnino's dark humor provides a lens through which audiences can grapple with these complex themes without feeling overwhelmed by the seriousness of the subject matter.

Climate Change: A Cinematic Mirror

Another standout on this year's slate is Tom McCarthy's “A Statement,” a drama centered around climate change. Lim explains how this film fits into the current moment:

"We've just lived through some kind of climate apocalypse in most parts of the world this summer, and much in the same way that 'Artificial' does with the AI crisis, this film is looking at a very specific moment in time with this climate conference from 1980. It explains why it's so hard for action to be taken, despite very clear evidence."

This narrative approach is more than just an academic exercise—it's a direct call to action for viewers. In a world where the climate crisis has become increasingly urgent, “A Statement” serves as both a historical reflection and a contemporary warning.

Music as Narrative Device

Among the surprises on this year's lineup is Tony Gilroy's “Behemoth,” a film that pays homage to film scoring. What makes it especially compelling is how music functions not just as background, but as an integral part of storytelling:

"This is a film that makes clear that music isn't just an accompaniment in the background of a film but a narrative device."

It's a bold statement that reflects Gilroy's vision and aligns with the NYFF's commitment to showcasing innovative filmmaking. The choice to focus on score-driven storytelling is not only a tribute to the power of music in cinema, but also an invitation for audiences to reconsider how sound shapes emotion and narrative.

The Festival's Mission: Beyond the Competition

NYFF is not a competitive festival; its role is more about curating meaningful experiences. Lim makes this point with clarity:

"Premiere status is never the be-all and end-all for us. But I think we've proved in the last few years that we create a pretty interesting context for the launch of a film."

That said, he doesn't shy away from the fact that this year's lineup features more world premieres than usual:

"There is more than usual this year. It's just a confluence of factors. Timing is always part of it. We are a month after the major fall festivals: Telluride, Venice, and Toronto. We're not a competitive festival. It doesn't make sense for us to have world premieres be the majority of our program."

The goal is to provide a platform where groundbreaking work can be introduced, but without the pressure of competition or judgment. As Lim points out, it's about making space for discovery and surprise—something that sets NYFF apart from its competitors.

Why Politics Are Inevitable in Cinema

In a recent interview, Venice jury president Maggie Gyllenhaal emphasized that films are “fundamentally, unavoidably political.” Lim couldn't agree more:

"I'd agree with that statement. I think all films are political. Even to say that one is apolitical is kind of a political position to take. To be human, to be alive in the world, is political. Cinema of all the art forms is unavoidably political."

This assertion is more than just an academic point—it's a philosophical stance on how cinema reflects society. In a time when media landscapes are increasingly polarized, films become a crucial way for artists to engage with pressing issues and encourage dialogue.

Behind the Scenes: A Personal Reflection

Lim's passion for film is evident in his personal anecdotes about festival life. He even admits:

"I wish I knew... that would make it easier. [Laughs]. I've actually gone back to watch films multiple times because when I'm in that state, you have to acknowledge that you're losing your perspective."

It's a humorous yet honest reflection of how intense and immersive festival-going can be. And while his wardrobe choices might not be the most glamorous, he's definitely one of the most thoughtful curators in the business:

"It's just about being aware that you're on stage with people who have stylists and budgets, and you don't want to look like a slob. But it is a long festival ... 15 days. It's something I should probably start thinking about soon."

The Future of Film Festivals

As the film industry continues to evolve, NYFF stands as a beacon of artistic integrity and cultural relevance. Lim's approach to programming reflects an understanding that in today's climate, films must do more than entertain—they must engage, provoke, and inspire.

The festival's emphasis on surprise screenings, such as last year's “Marty Supreme,” adds an element of unpredictability that keeps the audience engaged and eager. But Lim also notes:

"I don't think we will or need to do a surprise every year. It has to be the right film. A surprise that ends up being anticlimactic doesn't serve anyone."

This thoughtful approach ensures that surprises remain meaningful and impactful rather than merely gimmicky.

Conclusion: A Festival for Our Time

The New York Film Festival isn't just a celebration of cinema; it's a forum for conversation, reflection, and change. As Lim puts it, “We're reflecting the world; we're responding to the world.” This year's lineup is proof that NYFF continues to lead with vision, purpose, and a deep understanding of what makes cinema vital in our current moment.

Whether you're a film enthusiast or simply curious about how storytelling shapes our world, this year's NYFF promises an unforgettable experience. And as Lim so eloquently states, “Cinema of all the art forms is unavoidably political.”