The Arkansas Cinema Society has announced an impressive lineup for its annual Filmland film festival, set to take place August 12–16 in Little Rock. The five-day event will feature film screenings, workshops, and discussions, bringing a range of notable actors and filmmakers to the state.
Academy Award-winning actor Matthew McConaughey will headline the festival and receive the Variety Legend & Groundbreaker Award. McConaughey is scheduled to participate in a question-and-answer session following a screening of *The Rivals of Amziah King.* He will also join filmmaker and Little Rock native Jeff Nichols for a special conversation.
Included in the festival's slate are several highly anticipated films, such as *Chasing Summer,* *The Sun Never Sets,* and *The Brink of War.* Among the notable guests are filmmakers Josephine Decker, Joe Swanberg, and Michael Russell Gunn, as well as actor Judge Reinhold. These participants will engage with audiences during post-screening discussions.
Filmland will also offer industry workshops and panel discussions, covering topics such as film scoring and Arkansas’ incentives for filmmakers. Participating attendees could gain valuable insights into areas ranging from production techniques to local industry opportunities. Equipment grants through Panavision’s New Filmmaker Program will be awarded to winners of the festival’s audience awards.
Now in its eighth year, Filmland has grown into one of Arkansas’ premier cultural events, showcasing the state’s expanding role in the film industry. The festival continues to attract nationally recognized talent while creating new opportunities for local filmmakers.
The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts in Little Rock will serve as the venue for all festival activities, including screenings, panels, and workshops. Tickets are available now through the organizers' website, filmland.org.