The Bentonville Film Festival returns this June with a lineup that kicks off big: Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon will be in town to screen their new movie, Family Movie, during the festival’s opening night on June 15.
It’s the kind of premiere that makes you want to dust off your good jeans and head to the theater. The film, which marks the first time Sedgwick and Bacon—longtime Hollywood spouses—have starred together, is a comedy-drama about a blended family navigating chaos, heart, and the occasional awkward dinner. The screening will take place at the Skylight Theater in downtown Bentonville, with both actors expected to attend for a post-film conversation.
The festival, founded by actress and advocate Geena Davis, runs from June 15 to 21 and focuses on films that champion diversity and inclusion both in front of and behind the camera. This year’s theme, “Stories That Connect,” highlights narratives that bring families, communities, and cultures together. Family Movie, with its all-star ensemble cast and sharp writing, sets the tone perfectly.
More Than Just a Red Carpet
While the opening night will likely draw crowds from across Northwest Arkansas—and maybe a few curious Walmart execs—the festival is more than a one-night showcase. Over the course of the week, the Skylight and other local venues will screen over 40 films, including shorts, documentaries, and features from underrepresented voices in cinema. Several panels and workshops are also planned, with topics ranging from inclusive storytelling to financing independent films.
“We’re not just celebrating movies,” said festival director Jen Appel, during a recent press event at the Skylight. “We’re pushing for change in how stories get told and who gets to tell them.”
Past festivals have brought stars like America Ferrera and Lake Bell to Bentonville, but the real draw for locals is how the event transforms the town into a cultural hub for a full week. Restaurants like Tie Dye Ice Cream and Cafe Latte usually see a bump in foot traffic, and local volunteers are always needed to help with screenings, setup, and guest coordination.
If you’ve never been, this is a solid year to start. The festival doesn’t just roll into town and leave—it integrates, briefly, with the rhythm of NWA life. You might find yourself walking past a panel discussion on gender representation in film while grabbing a coffee, or spotting a filmmaker at Cornbread & Co. hashing out their next script.
How to Get Involved
Tickets for individual screenings go on sale May 30 at bentonvillefilmfestival.com. A full festival pass costs $125 and includes access to all screenings, panels, and opening night festivities. For those who want to dip a toe in, individual screening tickets will range from $12 to $25, with discounts available for students and seniors.
Volunteers are also needed for everything from ushering to guest check-in. Sign-ups are available through the festival website, and slots tend to fill up fast—especially for anyone hoping to work the Family Movie premiere.
Whether you’re a film buff or just curious about what happens when Hollywood descends on Bentonville, the festival offers a rare chance to see the town through a different lens. And who knows? You might just leave with a new favorite movie—or a fresh take on what storytelling can do.
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette
