SXSW 2016 Film Lineup: Top 10 Movies And Documentaries To Watch

Movie lovers are flocking to Austin, Texas, this weekend to indulge in the 2016 South by Southwest film festival. The event, which runs from March 11-19 in different locations throughout the city, gives fans the opportunity to catch premieres of upcoming flicks before they hit the big screen.

Of course, those hoping to catch a movie premiere can’t just show up at their local venue. Film screenings are only open to those who have badges to SXSW. However, it’s only a matter of time before some of these releases are available to the public. Check out a list of the top 10 films airing at SXSW this year:

“Everybody Wants Some” (Friday, March 11, at 6:30 p.m. at Paramount Theater)

Richard Linklater is finally delivering the “spiritual sequel” to his 1993 hit “Dazed and Confused.” This comedy is set at a college during the 1980s. Click HERE for additional showtimes.

“The Slippers” (Friday, March 11, at 6:30 p.m. at Alamo Lamar D)

One of the most talked-about pieces of Hollywood memorabilia are the ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz.” This documentary tells the fascinating story of how a pair of sparkly red shoes became such an important piece of cinematic history. Click HERE for additional showtimes.

“Beware the Slenderman” (Friday, March 11, at 9 p.m. at Topfer Theatre at ZACH)

Slender Man is a fictional “boogeyman” who gained traction on the Internet. Story has it that he abducts children. In May 2014 two 12-year-old girls in Wisconsin stabbed another girl 19 times as a way to “impress” the Slender Man. The documentary focuses on the crime, and will air on HBO following its premiere at SXSW. Click HERE for additional showtimes.

“Midnight Special” (Saturday, March 12, at 6 p.m. at Paramount Theater)

“Boardwalk Empire” star Michael Shannon stars in this sci-fi thriller about a father attempting to protect his young son, who has special powers. Kirsten Dunst and Adam Driver also star.

“Demolition” (Saturday, March 12, at 9:30 p.m. at Paramount Theater)

Jake Gyllenhaal and Naomi Watts star in this emotional film about a “successful investment banker” who struggles after the death of his wife. The movie will be released in theaters on April 8.

“Hush” (Saturday, March 12, at 11:30 p.m. at Stateside Theatre)

A new masked killer will haunt your dreams after watching “Hush.” This horror flick is about a deaf author who discovers a masked psychotic killer outside of her secluded home. Click HERE for additional showtimes.

“The Master Cleanse” (Sunday, March 13, at 2:45 p.m. at Alamo Lamar D)

Love “The Big Bang Theory”? See actor Johnny Galecki like never before in this comedy/fantasy film. The movie is about a man named Paul who goes on a spiritual retreat to “fix his broken life” but ends up on a “trippy” journey. Click HERE for additional showtimes.

“The Trust” (Sunday, March 13, at 3 p.m. at Paramount Theater)

Nicolas Cage and Elijah Wood are teaming up in this dark comedy. Yes, you read that right. “The Trust” is about two Las Vegas police officers who attempt to make money after a drug bust. Click HERE for additional showtimes.

“Hardcore Henry” (Sunday, March 13, at 9:30 p.m. at Paramount Theater)

Ever wanted to star in your own movie? Now’s your chance. “Hardcore Henry” is a first-person action film that allows the viewer to see things from the eyes of Henry, a man who has been brought back to life and has no memory. The film first premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2015. It will be released worldwide on April 8.

“Pee-wee’s Big Holiday” (Thursday, March 17, at 6 p.m. at Paramount Theater)

Pee-wee Herman is back! Before this movie hits Netflix, fans will be able to catch it at SXSW. The movie is about Pee-wee taking his first ever holiday. Click HERE for additional showtimes.