One of the fastest-growing Oscar stops for popular films, the annual SCAD Savannah Film Festival will take place Oct. 25 through Nov. 1 at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Of course, some of the biggest films will be featured, but Jennifer Lopez and Jon M. Chu will also be honored.
Here’s what we know about the festival so far:
Several film series will take place during the festival. Film series include the “Docs to Watch” series hosted by The Hollywood Reporter Executive Editor of Awards Scott Feinberg, “Artisans to Watch” hosted by Variety’s Senior Artisans Editor Jazz Tangcay, “Pixels and Pencils,” hosted by Variety Chief Awards Editor Clayton Davis and Entertainment Weekly’s “Breaking Big” panel, which recognizes the next generation of Hollywood talent.
Jon M. Chu to be honored with Vanguard Director Award
Wicked: For Good director Jon M. Chu to receive the Vanguard Director Award on Oct. 26 during an award presentation and conversation about his career, including the Wicked sequel.
Christina Routhier, Senior Executive Director of the SCAD Savannah Film Festival, said in a statement how Chu “embodies what it means to be a Vanguard.”
“From guiding global icons with a steady, inspired hand, to collaborating with authors, designers, and musicians at the highest level, Chu’s vision turns cultural moments into cinematic milestones,” she said. “For SCAD students, his career is a masterclass in how storytelling shapes culture, with this conversation offering an inside look into his groundbreaking contributions to worldwide cinema. We are excited to honor a storyteller whose artistry will continue to inspire audiences and empower the next generation of filmmakers.”
Jennifer Lopez will be honored with the Virtuoso Award
Lopez will also be honored with the Virtuoso Award for her multihyphenate career and her current turn in Kiss of the Spider Woman. Lopez will receive the award on Nov. 1 after a live recording of The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast hosted by Feinberg.
Routhier said how Lopez’s career has influenced entertainment for decades.
“It’s an extraordinary honor to welcome Jennifer Lopez to Savannah,” she said. “Her performance in Kiss of the Spider Woman is a revelation and having an artist of her global stature join us is a landmark moment for our festival and our community. Her influence across entertainment is unmatched, and we’re thrilled to celebrate her multifaceted career on our stage with The Hollywood Reporter.”
“This is also an extraordinary opportunity for SCAD’s acting and film and television students,” she continued. “Lopez’s career offers invaluable lessons in versatility, resilience, and creative vision. Moments like these not only inspire, but they also elevate our entire program, showcasing the exceptional talent and ambition that define SCAD.”
Festival passes for the SCAD Savannah Film Festival are now available, with individual event tickets going on sale Oct. 3.