Join the Austin Film Festival for a Celebration of Cinema and Literature

Austin Film Festival and Texas Book Festival Collaboration

A Unique Event Featuring Film Screening and Literary Discussion

The Austin Film Festival, in partnership with the Texas Book Festival, invites attendees to engage in a thought-provoking event that blends literature and cinema. On August 24, 2025, the iconic Paramount Theatre will host an enlightening discussion alongside the screening of the classic film, Giant.

The gathering will kick off with an engaging conversation featuring Pulitzer Prize-nominated author Julie Gilbert. Gilbert will discuss her latest literary work, Giant Love: Edna Ferber, Her Best-selling Novel of Texas, and the Making of a Classic American Film, alongside Oscar-nominated screenwriter Sean O’Neal. This is a wonderful opportunity for enthusiasts of both literature and film to come together.

The schedule for the event is as follows:

Books signed by the author will also be available for purchase, with assistance from First Light Books on site.

The Epic Film Giant

Originally released in 1956, the film Giant runs for an impressive 198 minutes and is directed by George Stevens. It features iconic performances by Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and James Dean. The film stands out as a magnificent portrayal of Texas’s vast landscapes and narratives, marking a significant point in cultural cinema.

As Jett Rink, portrayed by James Dean, embarks on a journey rife with conflict and ambition, audiences witness a classic tale of Texas life that resonates with themes of social change, family dynamics, and the spirit of the American frontier. The film remains memorable for its scale and storytelling, showcasing how to effectively craft a lengthy cinematic experience into something truly captivating.

Insights About the Guests

Meet Julie Gilbert

Julie Gilbert is an acclaimed novelist and biographer, with a rich background in creative writing. Her lineage includes ties to the esteemed novelist and playwright Edna Ferber, the subject of her biography titled Edna Ferber and Her Circle, published in 1978. Gilbert’s dedication to storytelling has earned her nominations for prestigious awards, including the Pulitzer Prize. With her latest book, Giant Love, she revisits the history behind Ferber’s novel and its cinematic adaptation.

Meet Sean O’Neal

Sean O’Neal, a writer-at-large for Texas Monthly, is an authority on film and television, with contributions to major publications, including GQ and Vulture. O’Neal’s insights into the film industry bring an authentic perspective to the discussion at this event.

Event Logistics and Important Notes

Parking for the event is conveniently available for $6 at the 600 Congress parking garage, accessible from 155 W 7th St. Guests are reminded that there is a Clear Bag Policy in place for all events at the venue, ensuring a pleasant and safe experience for all attendees.

Висновок

The upcoming event hosted by the Austin Film Festival and Texas Book Festival is set to be a unique convergence of literature and cinema. Engaging with figures such as Julie Gilbert and Sean O’Neal will provide a rich context to the film Giant, highlighting its significance in American culture.

For those interested in literary exploration and cinematic discussions, this event promises insightful conversations and memorable experiences. Giant Love reflects the depths of storytelling, revealing the layers between written words and their visual interpretations. Though reviews and experiences shared by others are valuable, nothing compares to enjoying these moments firsthand. Explore a variety of experiences curated by verified providers at great rates on GetExperience.com, designed to enhance your travels and create unforgettable memories. Book now and explore amazing offerings tailored to your interests at GetExperience.com.