AFS Cinema is gearing up for Halloween with a special 10th-anniversary screening of the Austin original film “Grow Up, Tony Phillips” directed by Emily Hagins. The coming-of-age comedy stars Tony Vespe as Tony Phillips, a Halloween enthusiast who struggles with being the only kid still trick-or-treating in his class. Katie Folger and AJ Bowen also star in the film.
The movie, funded through Kickstarter, was Hagins’ fourth feature film and showcases her talent as a director at a young age. The film embraces the nerdy side of Austin and features connections to other Austin-based films such as “Zero Charisma” and “Slash.” Many familiar faces from the Austin film community make appearances in the film, adding to its local charm.
In addition to the anniversary screening of “Grow Up, Tony Phillips,” AFS Cinema is hosting a variety of locally connected films in the upcoming months. Kier-La Janisse will be present for a special screening of Monte Hellman’s “Cockfighter” to celebrate the release of her new book. The cinema will also feature the documentary “Faders Up: The John Aielli Experience” and a special screening of “We Are Fugazi From Washington, D.C.” with co-curator Joe Gross in attendance.
The Invincible Czars will wrap up their North American tour with a live score performance of the classic horror film “Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror.” Additionally, AFS Cinema will showcase an eight-film retrospective of Frederick Wiseman’s early works and a mini-season focusing on women filmmakers in the Nineties indie scene.
For more information on screenings and tickets, visit the AFS Cinema website. Your support for independent journalism is crucial in keeping the community informed and engaged with important issues. Consider making a donation to help continue the tradition of independent news in Austin.