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Film Fest Celebrates Director Julian Schnabel
6 Mar
Summary
- Film festival to honor Julian Schnabel with directing award.
- A new film follows a quest for Dante Alighieri's manuscript.
- Schnabel's past works include 'Basquiat' and 'The Diving Bell and the Butterfly'.

The Sarasota Film Festival will present Julian Schnabel with its Achievement in Directing Award during the 2026 festival. This accolade follows Schnabel's recent induction into the Austin Film Society's Texas Film Hall of Fame. His upbringing in Brownsville, Texas, significantly influenced his artistic and filmmaking endeavors. Schnabel's notable directorial works include 'Basquiat,' 'Before Night Falls,' and 'The Diving Bell and the Butterfly,' which garnered four Oscar nominations. The festival will feature a retrospective screening of 'Before Night Falls' on Friday, April 17, 2026, accompanied by original artwork and a reception.