Little Rock, Arkansas – The Arkansas Cinema Society has revealed the lineup of films and special events planned for this year’s Filmland festival, which will take place August 12-16 at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts in Little Rock.
The annual event will bring together filmmakers, actors, and movie fans for several days of screenings, workshops, and panel discussions celebrating film and the growing entertainment industry in Arkansas. Organizers said this year’s program will feature a mix of independent films, special presentations, and projects with connections to the state.
Among the highlights is the Arkansas Filmmaker Spotlight selection, which will feature Josh Loeb’s “In Spite of Ourselves.” The selection recognizes a filmmaker with an Arkansas connection and highlights the work of creators connected to the state’s film community.
The festival will also feature Josephine Decker’s coming-of-age drama “Chasing Summer” as the closing-night film. Another featured screening will include Joe Swanberg’s newest feature, “The Sun Never Sets.”
Movie fans will also have the opportunity to attend a special anniversary presentation of the comedy “Ruthless People.” Actor Judge Reinhold will headline the event, which celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Zucker brothers’ film.
In addition to film screenings, Filmland will include educational opportunities through workshops and panel discussions designed to connect audiences with filmmakers and industry professionals.
The Tyson Family Foundation will once again serve as the event’s headline presenting sponsor. John R. Tyson said the foundation and the Arkansas Cinema Society share a goal of supporting the arts and helping strengthen the state’s film industry.
The festival will also feature a major appearance from actor Matthew McConaughey, who was previously announced as the recipient of the Variety Legend & Groundbreaker Award at Filmland.
McConaughey is scheduled to participate in a question-and-answer session following a premiere presentation of Andrew Patterson’s “The Rivals of Amziah King.” He will also join filmmaker Jeff Nichols for a special discussion titled “A Conversation with Matthew McConaughey and Jeff Nichols.”
Organizers said the appearance will give attendees a chance to hear directly from McConaughey about his career, filmmaking experiences, and creative work.
The Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau said Filmland continues to provide an opportunity to showcase the city’s arts community while bringing national attention to Arkansas.
“As a proud partner of the Arkansas Cinema Society and Variety, we’re thrilled to welcome Filmland: Arkansas and Academy Award-winning actor Matthew McConaughey back to Little Rock, as well as introduce many others to our city,” said Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau President & CEO Gina Gemberling. “Hosting an event of this caliber each year is always an exciting opportunity to showcase Arkansas’ capital city on a national stage while highlighting the vibrant arts and culture scene that continues to grow here.”
Since its creation, the Arkansas Cinema Society has worked to expand opportunities for filmmakers and audiences throughout the state. Through events like Filmland, the organization promotes film education, supports local creators, and encourages connections between Arkansas and the broader film industry.
This year’s festival will offer attendees a variety of ways to experience cinema, from major screenings and guest appearances to conversations focused on storytelling and filmmaking.
Additional details about Filmland, including schedules and event information, are available through the Arkansas Cinema Society. Information about the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts can also be found through the museum’s official resources.
