65th SFFILM Festival: Opening Night (April 21 – May 1)

Submitted by the Event Organizer

Welcome back to the movies! The 65th San Francisco International Film Festival is back in person running April 21-May 1 and kicking off with the North American Premiere of Stay Awake starring Chrissy Metz, followed by an Opening Night Party.

Rarely conveyed in the headlines decrying the opioid epidemic are the personal struggles of addicts – daily fighting for sobriety and the hopeful resilience of their families. For teenagers Derek (Fin Argus) and Ethan (Wyatt Oleff), the situation is all too familiar as they pace the streets searching for their painkiller-dependent mother, Michelle. This Is Us star Chrissy Metz, playing Michelle, delivers a nuanced portrayal of guilt and shame that fearlessly digs into the trauma of recovery, while newcomers Argus and Oleff infuse the film with vulnerability and unexpected humor. First-time feature director Jamie Sisley masterfully builds a relatable world full of characters that vibrate with authenticity in this powerful, SFFILM-supported drama that will stick with you long after you exit the theater.

Kick off the 2022 Festival in style with a soirée at the historic San Francisco Mint, featuring live entertainment, dancing, and treats from some of the Bay Area’s finest food and beverage purveyors. Opening Night Party tickets must be purchased separately.

Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.