SXSW

A new Netflix documentary about the early days of the Red Hot Chili Peppers features an AI-generated voiceover of founding guitarist Hillel Slovak reading from his personal journals. Directed by Ben Feldman, the film premiered at SXSW and began streaming on March 20. The band has distanced itself from the project while expressing support for honoring Slovak.

March 20, 2026 Reported by AI

Variety staff chose eight standout films and TV titles from the 2026 SXSW Film & TV Festival in Austin. The abbreviated seven-day event featured gory comedies, documentaries, and a returning HBO series amid themes of horror humor. Highlights span studio headliners and indies seeking distribution.

Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas attended the SXSW premiere of John Carney's music-themed comedy 'Power Ballad,' where they discussed the film's themes of songwriting and personal reinvention. The movie follows a wedding band singer who rediscovers his passion through an encounter with a former boy band star. Jonas shared insights on the vulnerabilities of success in the music industry during a post-screening Q&A.

March 14, 2026 Reported by AI

Jamie Lee Curtis revealed at SXSW that she would likely have declined the 2018 Halloween sequel if she had known it was part of a trilogy. She used the discovery to negotiate a development deal with producer Jason Blum. Curtis discussed her career, horror genre appreciation, and upcoming projects during the panel.

During a promotional panel at SXSW in Austin, Keke Palmer faced an unexpected interruption when a man from the audience proposed to her on stage. The actress handled the moment with poise, politely turning him down while questioning if it was a prank. Fans online are buzzing about her reaction and the security lapse.

March 13, 2026 Reported by AI

Emmy-winning producer David McCourt spoke at SXSW about his upcoming PBS docuseries 'Amerigo,' which examines the state of the American Dream as the United States nears its 250th anniversary in 2026. Drawing from his grandfather's immigrant success story, McCourt questioned whether similar opportunities remain available today. He highlighted corporate practices and societal challenges based on conversations across the country.