Tribeca Goes International with Lisbon Festival to Highlight U.S. Indies, Portuguese Films, and More
The Tribeca Festival is officially going international.
IndieWire can confirm that the inaugural Tribeca Festival Lisboa will take place from October 17 to 19 in Lisbon, Portugal. The Tribeca Festival Lisboa lineup has been unveiled, featuring the Portuguese premieres of “Anora,” “Ezra,” “Jazzy,” and “Group Therapy.”
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Tribeca Festival Lisboa will showcase eight U.S. films, including top winners from Tribeca 2024 such as Nicholas Colia’s “Griffin in Summer,” Sean Baker’s Palme d’Or-winning feature “Anora,” Sundance breakout “In the Summers,” and the heart-wrenching SXSW drama “Bob Trevino Likes It.”
The international premiere of “A Bronx Tale, The Original One Man Show” followed by a talkback with writer, director, and star Chazz Palminteri will also take place.
A special screening of the highly-anticipated Portuguese series “Azul,” César Mour?o’s feature narrative “Podia Ter Esperado Por Agosto,” the world premiere of “Unicorn,” and screenings of short films such as “Era Uma Vez No Apocalipse,” “Os Sonhos Continuam,” and “O Afinador de Silêncios” round out the lineup.
“Twenty-two years ago, Jane Rosenthal and I founded the Tribeca Festival to help revitalize lower Manhattan through the power of film, art, and storytelling. This mission remains our North Star,” Tribeca co-founder Robert De Niro said in a press statement. “Each year, we aim to unify communities, ignite creativity, and inspire new waves of innovation. It means a great deal to us to bring this same spirit to Lisbon — a city bursting with renewed cultural and economic promise.”
The first-ever Tribeca Festival Lisboa is presented by Tribeca Enterprises, Portuguese broadcast company SIC, its streaming platform OPTO, and the City of Lisbon. The festival will highlight U.S. independent films, Portuguese films, TV series, podcasts, and music, as well as live talks with “international and local stars,” per the press release.
Panels include discussions of the impact of AI on filmmaking, representation in media and entertainment, the future of streaming, and the craft of great storytelling. De Niro, Whoopi Goldberg, Patty Jenkins, Griffin Dunne, and Chazz Palminteri are among the panelists, plus Ricardo Araújo Pereira, Daniela Ruah, and César Mour?o.
“For more than two decades, Tribeca has passionately championed independent filmmakers and emerging talent from across the globe,” Tribeca co-founder and CEO Jane Rosenthal, who will also be a panel guest, said. “We’re proud to continue the tradition this fall, bringing the best of American independent cinema to Portugal, while also partnering with the City of Lisbon and the team at Grupo Impresa to showcase the country’s rising talent.”
Attendees also can look forward to live recordings of one of Portugal’s most popular podcast series – “Gera??o 70,” “Gera??o 80,” and “Gera??o 90” — as well Ricardo Araújo Pereira’s podcast “Coisa Que N?o Edifica Nem Destrói,” which returns for a second season this fall.
“This October, Tribeca Festival Lisboa will be the must-attend event, bringing together visionary talent from around the world to celebrate and explore the art of storytelling in all its forms,” Francisco Pedro Pinto Balsem?o, the CEO of Grupo Impresa, said. “The collaboration between SIC, OPTO, and Tribeca promises to be a cultural force, offering our local Portuguese talent the visibility and international recognition they deserve.”
Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas added, “Lisbon was recently recognized as the most innovative city in Europe, surpassing more than 250 cities — a milestone few thought possible. By hosting the first European edition of the Tribeca Festival, we have solidified our position as the go-to destination in Europe for lovers of culture, art, and innovation. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Robert De Niro, Jane Rosenthal, and the entire Tribeca team for choosing Lisbon. This choice is a direct acknowledgment of the incredible journey the city has embarked on over the past three years, making it one of the most attractive cities in the world.”
Tribeca has also rolled out its Tribeca Membership program stateside, with film and TV premieres followed by conversations with the filmmakers, creators, and stars. The events are available exclusively for members to experience arts and entertainment programming year-round. Upcoming highlights include the Season 2 premiere of fan favorite Paramount+ series “Tulsa King” and the New York premiere of fellow Paramount+’s “Apartment 7A.”
Check out the Tribeca Festival Lisboa 2024 lineup below.
Official Selections
“Anora” (United States) – Portuguese Premiere
Anora, a young sex worker from Brooklyn, gets her chance at a Cinderella story when she meets and impulsively marries the son of an oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairytale is threatened as the parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled. Written and directed by Sean Baker. Produced by Sean Baker, Alex Coco, and Smanatha Quan. With Mikey Madison, Mark Eydelshteyn, Yura Borisov, Karren Karagulian, and Vache Tovmasyan.
“Bob Trevino Likes It” (United States) – European Premiere
When lonely 20-something Lily Trevino accidentally befriends a stranger online who shares the exact same name as her own self-centered father, encouragement and support from this new Bob Trevino could change her life for the better. Inspired by a true story. Written and directed by Tracie Laymon. Produced by Tracie Laymon, Sean Mullin, Edgar Rosa, and Felipe Dieppa. With Barbie Ferreira, John Leguizamo, French Stewart, Lauren “Lolo” Spencer, and Rachel Bay Jones.
After the Movie: Q&A with writer and director Tracie Laymon
“A Bronx Tale, The Original One Man Show” (United States) – International Premiere
“A Bronx Tale, The Original One Man Show” is an autobiographical piece that tells the story of Chazz Palminteri’s childhood in the Bronx during the 1960s. The narrative centers on a young boy named Cologero who witnesses a murder and is subsequently taken under the wing of a local mob boss named Sonny. The story explores themes of loyalty, family, and the crossroads between a life of crime and a more traditional path. Palminteri portrays over a dozen different characters, all performed by Palminteri himself. Written, directed, produced by, and starring Chazz Palminteri.
After the Movie: Q&A with writer, director, and star Chazz Palminteri.
“Ezra” (United States) – Portuguese Premiere
“Ezra” follows Max Bernal, a stand-up comedian living with his father while struggling to co-parent his autistic son Ezra with his ex-wife. When forced to confront difficult decisions about their son’s future, Max and Ezra embark on a cross-country road trip that has a transcendent impact on both their lives. “Ezra” is an endearing and often funny exploration of a family determined to find their way through life’s complexities with humor, compassion, and heart. Directed by Tony Goldwyn. Written by Tony Spiridakis. Produced by William Horberg, Jon Kilik, Tony Goldwyn, and Tony Spiridakis. With Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, Rainn Wilson, Tony Goldwyn, William A. Fitzgerald, and Robert De Niro.
After the Movie: Q&A with actor Robert De Niro
“Griffin in Summer” (United States) – European Premiere
Fourteen-year-old Griffin Nafly is the most ambitious playwright of his generation. But once he meets handsome twenty-five-year-old failed performance artist turned handyman Brad, his life (and play) will never be the same. Directed and written by Nicholas Colia. Produced by Juliet Berman, Bobby Hoppey, Camila Mendes, Rachel Matthews, Matthew Miller, and Fred Bryant. With Everett Blunck, Melanie Lynskey, Owen Teague, Abby Ryder Fortson, and Kathryn Newton.
After the Movie: Q&A with writer and director Nicholas Colia.
“Group Therapy” (United States) – Portuguese Premiere
This unique documentary offers a thoughtful and humorous navigation of personal conversations on mental health, through the lens of a group therapy session led by some of today’s funniest comedians and comic performers. Directed by Neil Berkeley. Produced by Kevin Healey, Luke Kelly-Clyne, Kevin Hart, and Bryan Smiley. With Neil Patrick Harris, Mike Birbiglia, Nicole Byer, Gary Gulman, London Hughes, Tig Notaro, and Atsuko Okatsuka.
After the Movie: Q&A with director Neil Berkeley
“In the Summers” (United States) – Portuguese Premiere
In this poignant debut film, embark on a journey with two sisters as they grapple with their relationship to their well-meaning but troubled father during their childhood summers. Directed and written by Alessandra Lacorazza Samudio. Produced by Alexander Dinelaris, Rob Quadrino, Nando Vila. With Rene Perez Joglar, Sasha Calle, Lio Mehiel, Leslie Grace.
After the Movie: Q&A with producer Cynthia Fernandez
“Jazzy” (United States) – Portuguese Premiere
In the follow up to her award-winning film “The Unknown Country”, filmmaker Morrisa Maltz captures the joys and heartbreaks of childhood friendship as young Jazzy navigates the challenges of growing up on the Oglala Lakota reservation in South Dakota. ??Directed by Morrisa Maltz. Written by Morrisa Maltz, Vanara Taing, Lainey Bearkiller Shangreaux, Andrew Hajek. Produced by Miranda Bailey, John Way, Natalie Whalen. With Jasmine Bearkiller Shangreaux, Syriah Fool Head Means, Raymond Lee, Lily Gladstone.
After the Movie: Q&A with writer and director Morissa Maltz
Portuguese Films, Series, and Podcasts
Feature Narratives
“Chuva de Ver?o” (Portugal) – Special Screening.
And when the rain falls, it all ends. Every year, eight friends gather at the same vacation house. But this summer is different. Bonds that were once as strong as family are now tested by new group dynamics, fresh faces, and inner conflicts. Over the course of the week, they will be forced to confront the ghosts of a past tragedy. Written, directed by António Mantas Moura.
“Podia Ter Esperado Por Agosto” (Portugal) – Special Screening
In a remote village in the countryside, a man in love, Xavier, and his best friend, Juli?o, come up with a far-fetched plan to lure the woman he loves, Laura, from Lisbon. Against all odds, the plan works, and that’s when the real problems begin, setting off a whirlwind romantic comedy where two worlds collide. Written by César Mour?o, Pedro Goul?o. Directed by César Mour?o.
After the Movie: Q&A with director César Mour?o and 313 Producer, Diogo Brito
“Praxx — Fim De Semana” (Portugal) – World Premiere
Winter, Friday. A group of college students heads off for a weekend to celebrate their induction into the prestigious Academic Life Association. Led by DUX Gon?alo, and all staying in the same house, Diana, Afonso, Xana Mafalda, Mateo, and Lucas enjoy games that strengthen their friendship—until the individual hazing rituals begin. With the help of Sara and Ricardo, two veteran members who arrive on Saturday evening, Gon?alo tests the group’s loyalty to the association, as well as the courage and resilience of each of the six students. What starts as fun soon turns to terror when a hazing ritual on the beach goes too far. This story is inspired by the 2013 tragedy that shocked Portugal—the drowning of six college students at Meco Beach—and the conspiracy theories that still surround the case. Directed by Patrícia Sequeira. Written by Patrícia Sequeira, Ana Lúcia Carvalho.
Feature Documentaries
“George” (Portugal) – Special Screening
He is one of the FBIs most wanted men. What George Wright doesn’t lack is audacity. At 19, he robbed a gas station; at 27, he escaped from a U.S. prison; and at 29, he hijacked a plane. Forty years later, the FBI discovered he had been living in Portugal after years on the run through France, Algeria, and Guinea-Bissau. That day, he had to face his wife and children and reveal all the secrets of his past. “George” won Netflix’s script competition. Written and directed by Sofia Pinto Coelho.
“Unicorn – Feedzai” (Portugal) – World Premiere
Strategies, lucky breaks, and resilience in the face of crisis. A rich documentary on how three tech companies born in Portugal became unicorns. Initially, few believed in Feedzai, but Nuno Sebasti?o’s persistence led to the creation of a global leader in combating financial crime.
After the Movie: Q&A Feedzai’s CEO Nuno Sebasti?o
“Unicorn – Sword Health” (Portugal) – World Premiere
Strategies, lucky breaks, and resilience in the face of crisis. A rich documentary on how three tech companies born in Portugal became unicorns. After a family tragedy, Virgílio Bento founded Sword Health to help millions escape from pain.
After the Movie: Q&A Sword Health’s CEO Virgílio Bento
Series
“Azul” (Portugal) – Special Screening
It has been a year since the last sighting of a whale anywhere on the planet. Olivia, a determined 18-year-old girl with Down syndrome, the daughter of a famous biologist, joins a group of environmental activists from the Azores and embarks on a mission to bring the whales back. Created by director Pedro Varela.
After the Screening: Q&A with actor Ricardo Pereira and director Pedro Varela
Short Films
“Das Duas Uma” (Portugal) – Special Screening
Alice and Diana’s world feels perfect within four walls, but the challenge arises when reality forces them to confront issues in their relationship and their sexuality. Written and directed by Bernardo Gomes de Almeida.
“Era Uma Vez No Apocalipse” (Portugal) – Special Screening
In a not-so-distant future, humanity tries to survive the consequences of World War III. In Portugal, a totalitarian regime imposes martial law that prevents people from moving freely. But Ernesto knows that the pretexts used are false. When one day a law enforcement officer shows up at his door, a game of cat and mouse begins that will end in tragedy. A fable in times or war. Directed by Tiago Pimentel. Written by António Miguel Pereira, Tiago Pimentel.
After the Movie: Q&A TBA
“O Afinador de Silêncios” (Portugal) – Special Screening
Mwanito’s been living in a faraway place, surrounded by raw nature, for eight years. The only people he knows are his father, his brother, an uncle, and a servant. He’s been told that outside, the world is dead, and they are waiting for an apology from God. Written and directed by Mário Patrocínio.
“Os Sonhos Continuam” (Portugal) – Special Screening
Fleeing the Portuguese dictatorship and immigrating to the U.S. doesn’t keep Maria from dancing. 50 years later, the threat of cultural loss brings her granddaughter home to dance in their folk troupe. An intimate portrait of the generational impact of immigration. Directed by Karlee Rodrigues, Marlee Rodrigues.
Podcasts
“Coisa Que N?o Edifica Nem Destrói” – Live Recording
A social experiment where Ricardo Araújo Pereira talks at length about topics that fascinate him, but might not interest anyone else. Occasionally, he even annoys his guests. The goal is to attract as many listeners as possible, much like that egg that became the most-liked photo on Instagram.
Host: Ricardo Araújo Pereira
“Gera??o 70” – Live Recording
This isn’t a podcast about politics, economics, arts, or science. It’s an open conversation with influential figures born in the 70s—a generation now leading the country or on the path to doing so. We explore their hopes, frustrations, realized dreams, and those left behind. Led by Bernardo Ferr?o, it’s a first-person reflection on the passage of time, taking us from the 70s to the present day.
Host: Bernardo Ferr?o
“Gera??o 80” – Live Recording
The 80s in Portugal were marked by the rise of democracy and a newfound openness to the world after joining the EEC. It was a time of creativity that still echoes today. Despite the mustaches, shoulder pads, and perms, was the 80s the best generation yet? In this podcast, we hear from Portuguese born in that iconic decade, guided by Francisco Pedro Pinto Balsem?o, Impresa’s CEO, on a journey back to the future.
Host: Francisco Pedro Pinto Balsem?o
“Gera??o 90” – Live Recording
A casual conversation with today’s leading figures born in the 90s—the generation that grew up with the digital revolution and is now shaping the future. We’ll discuss their challenges and achievements, dreams that became reality, and those that didn’t. This is an intimate exploration of how time has impacted them and a journey from the 90s to the present day, guided by Portuguese actress Júlia Palha.
Host: Júlia Palha
“Na Realidade é Fic??o”– Live Recording
Explore the stories, secrets, and behind-the-scenes details of OPTO’s films, series, and documentaries. Renato Godinho sits down with actors, directors, writers, and crew members to discuss the creative process behind each production.
Host: Renato Godinho
“O CEO é O Limite” – Live Recording
Expresso’s podcast on leadership and careers. Each week, journalist Cátia Mateus introduces you to Portuguese leaders who have shaped the past, are leading today, and are set to influence the future. Hear their inspiring stories, learn how they started, and discover what it took for them to reach the top. These are firsthand accounts from those who dare to make things happen.
Host: Cátia Mateus
“O Expresso da Manh?” – Live Recording
In this podcast, Paulo Baldaia talks with Expresso’s journalists, international correspondents, and commentators. In each episode, guests analyze the news that stand out beyond the daily noise.
Host: Paulo Baldaia
Live Talks
“Restoring Hope: How Tribeca Inspires the World Through Storytelling”
Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal reflect on the history and legacy of the Tribeca Festival.
Panelists: Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal, Co-Founders, Tribeca Festival
Moderator: Francisco Pedro Pinto Balsem?o, CEO, Grupo Impresa
“Enduring Excellence in Hollywood: Crafting Stories That Stand the Test of Time In An Ever-Changing Society”
A panel focused on how iconic stories stand the test of time in an ever-changing society. Panelists: Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal, Co-Founders, Tribeca Festival
Moderator: Bernardo Ferr?o
“Laughter, Tears & Healing: The Power of Comedy and Drama in Mental Health (and Storytelling)”
A conversation that highlights the complementary nature of comedy and drama.
Panelists: Whoopi Goldberg, Emmy, Golden Globe, Oscar, and Tony-winning actor and comedian; Ricardo Araújo Pereira, comedian
“Innovation Meets Imagination: How The New Storytelling in Media, Music and Animation Is Empowering Diverse Voices and Communities”
A panel focused on how new stories empower and represent diverse communities.
Panelists: Whoopi Goldberg, Emmy, Golden Globe, Oscar, and Tony-winning actor and comedian
“Empowerment & Representation Matters: the Art of Storytelling Through Feminine Lenses”
A discussion about the importance of women taking charge both behind and infront of the camera.
Panelists: Patty Jenkins, award-winning filmmaker
Moderator: Randi Charno Levine, U.S. Ambassador to Portugal
“Beyond the Screen. What’s Next for Direct-to-Digital And What Does That Mean For Movie Theatres?”
Panelists: Griffin Dunne, Academy Award-nominated actor; Patty Jenkins, award-winning filmmaker; Portuguese 313 Producer Diogo Brito
“Leading Roles to Leading Films: What Happens When Actors Take the Director’s Chair?”
Academy-award nominated actor Griffin Dunne dives into the intricacies of actors turning directors.
Panelist: Griffin Dunne, Academy-Award nominated actor; Portuguese actor and director Francisco Froes and Portuguese actor and director Daniela Ruah
“What Truly Makes a Story Great?”
A comprehensive exploration of the intricate balance between writing and directing, offering valuable perspectives for filmmakers, writers, and cinema enthusiasts.
Panelists: Chazz Palminteri; Portuguese writer Pedro Lopes
“The AI Impact: Changing the Landscape of Storytelling, Politics, and Culture”
The role of AI in today’s world.
Panelists: Portuguese actress and director Daniela Ruah; Feedzai’s CEO Nuno Sebasti?o; Portuguese journalist Louren?o Medeiros.
“City Spotlight. The Power of Culture and Technology in Propelling Lisbon and NYC into the Mainstream”
Mayor of Lisbon Carlos Moedas and Tribeca’s Jane Rosenthal explore the ways in which technology, culture, and the arts revitalize cities.
Panelists: Carlos Moedas, Mayor of Lisbon; Jane Rosenthal, Co-Founder and CEO of Tribeca Festival
*Additional topics, speakers, and moderators to be announced at a later date.
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