The Philadelphia Film Festival Begins

Brace yourself Philadelphia, as Academy Award Nominee David O. Russell returns to the City of Brotherly Love for the Philadelphia Film Festival's Opening Night feature Silver Linings Playbook. The picture was shot locally throughout Delaware County and, since its award-winning world premier at the Toronto International Film Festival back in September, critics have been raving about Silver Linings Playbook and the Oscar hopes that it's sure to carry. I can't wait for the festivities which begin tonight at 8pm at the Zellerbach Theatre at the University of Pennsylvania's campus and continue on through Sunday October 28th. Here's a short look at some of the movies I'm slated to catch during the first weekend of the event:

Silver Linings Playbook

Bradley Cooper stars as Pat Solitano, a former teacher fresh out of the mental institution and court ordered to shack up with his parents Pat Sr. (played by Robert De Niro) and Dolores (played by Jacki Weaver). While Pat has every intention of getting better and reconciling with his ex-wife, things get complicated when he meets a mysterious girl named Tiffany (played by Jennifer Lawrence) with problems of her own. Check out the theatrical trailer for Silver Linings Playbook below.

The Sessions

John Hawkes stars as Mark O'Brien, a 38 year old man confined to an iron lung and determined to lose his virginity. Through the guidance of a priest (played by William H. Macy) and with the help of a sex therapist (played by Helen Hunt), Mark sets out to make his dream come true. Check out the trailer of The Sessions below.

Stand Up Guys

Val (played by Al Pacino) has just been released from prison after 28 years for refusing to rat out a criminal associate. His best friend Doc (played by Christopher Walken) picks him up and the pair re-team with another old friend named Hirsch (played by Alan Arkin). The old gang set out on a wild night for one last hurrah before Doc takes his final assignment, killing his best friend Val. Check out the trailer for Stand Up Guys below.

These are far from the only movies I have planned for the first weekend of the festival. Check back regularly to catch the latest on what I've seen and what I have coming up. It's a great way to stay connected and get the latest info on some Oscar hopefuls such as Cloud Atlas, Hyde Park on Hudson, Quartet, Flight and many more. Stay tuned!