Steven Spielberg to Return to SXSW for Keynote Address

Steven Spielberg to Deliver Keynote Address at SXSW 2024

Three-time Oscar winner Steven Spielberg is set to return to South by Southwest (SXSW) as a keynote speaker on Friday, March 13, 2024. This marks his second appearance at the festival, having previously attended for the world premiere of his 2018 film Ready Player One, adapted from Ernest Cline’s sci-fi novel.

During the event, Spielberg will participate in a live episode of The Big Picture with host Sean Fennessey. The discussion is expected to cover a broad range of topics, including Spielberg’s extensive filmography, the evolving landscape of cinema, and his forthcoming summer release, Disclosure Day, which will debut in theaters on June 12 through Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment.

“Childhood dreams do come true!” said Claudette Godfrey, Vice President of Film & TV at SXSW. “Steven Spielberg is a true pioneer and legend whose seminal work has inspired generations of filmmakers and audiences alike. He’s given us some of cinema’s most formative, unforgettable, and magical experiences while always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on screen. He embodies the spirit of cinematic innovation and bold storytelling that defines SXSW, and bringing him to Austin for this special keynote is going to be an extraordinary moment for our community. Making dreams come true is exactly why we do what we do. We’ll all be phoning home about this one!”

Spielberg’s participation adds to a growing roster of prominent figures scheduled to appear at the SXSW Film & TV Conference. Other notable guests include Vince Gilligan and Rhea Seehorn, who will discuss Pluribus; Larry David and Jeff Schaffer, who will preview their upcoming HBO series; as well as Bill Lawrence, Matt Tarses, Steve Carell, and Danielle Deadwyler discussing their new HBO Original ROOSTER. Oscar winner Jamie Lee Curtis will also reflect on themes of reinvention, creativity, and career longevity.

This year’s SXSW will take place at the Hilton, as the Austin Convention Center undergoes a significant four-year renovation project. The festival has a rich history of featuring in-depth conversations with leading filmmakers, with past guests including Terrence Malick, Rian Johnson, and the creative team behind Everything Everywhere All at Once.