“Behemoth!”, la nueva apuesta de Pedro Pascal

The 64th edition of the New York Film Festival (NYFF), presented by Film at Lincoln Center, is poised to host the global premiere of "Behemoth!", a new drama helmed by acclaimed director Tony Gilroy and starring international sensation Pedro Pascal. This much-anticipated film will make its debut on October 2, 2026, marking a significant event within one of the United States’ most prestigious cinematic showcases. The festival itself is scheduled to run from September 25 to October 12, 2026, promising a vibrant array of groundbreaking cinema.

The Storied Legacy of the New York Film Festival

Since its inception in 1963, the New York Film Festival has solidified its position as a preeminent platform for showcasing cinematic excellence, both domestically and internationally. Organized by Film at Lincoln Center, the festival is renowned for its meticulously curated selection of films, consistently featuring works by established masters and introducing emerging voices that push the boundaries of storytelling. Over six decades, NYFF has become an essential stop on the global film festival circuit, often serving as a critical launchpad for films that go on to garner significant critical acclaim and awards season recognition. Its non-competitive nature fosters an environment focused purely on artistic appreciation and intellectual engagement, distinguishing it from many other major festivals. The festival’s main venues, particularly Alice Tully Hall and Walter Reade Theater at Lincoln Center, become epicenters of film culture each autumn, attracting cinephiles, industry professionals, and media from around the world. Historically, films premiered at NYFF have frequently gone on to receive nominations and wins at major awards ceremonies, including the Academy Awards, further cementing the festival’s influence on the broader film landscape. This year’s 64th edition continues this tradition, promising another robust lineup designed to challenge, entertain, and inspire.

"Behemoth!": A Deep Dive into Music, Memory, and Identity

At the heart of "Behemoth!" lies a compelling narrative woven around the character of Alex Serian, portrayed by Pedro Pascal. Serian is depicted as a gifted cellist, whose life has been inextricably linked to music, stemming from his roots in a family of accomplished musicians. The film’s central conflict ignites with Alex’s return to Los Angeles after an absence of two decades, a homecoming that compels him to confront a past he had meticulously endeavored to leave behind. This forced re-engagement with his origins and unresolved issues forms the core dramatic tension of the story, exploring themes of personal history, the weight of family legacy, and the arduous journey of self-reconstruction.

The narrative structure suggests a powerful exploration of how past choices and relationships continue to resonate in the present, even after years of distance. As Alex attempts to re-establish his life, he is inevitably drawn back into the orbit of people and circumstances he had once abandoned. This premise promises a rich tapestry of emotional depth, where the universal struggle for identity and the desire to regain control over one’s personal narrative are brought to the forefront. The backdrop of classical music is not merely ornamental; it is integral to Alex’s character and likely serves as both a source of solace and a conduit for expressing his internal turmoil.

Tony Gilroy’s Return to Feature Filmmaking

"Behemoth!" marks a highly anticipated return to feature fiction for Tony Gilroy, who not only directs but also penned the screenplay. Gilroy is a filmmaker celebrated for his taut, intelligent thrillers and character-driven dramas. His previous directorial credits include the critically acclaimed "Michael Clayton" (2007), which earned multiple Academy Award nominations, and "The Bourne Legacy" (2012), an expansion of the Bourne universe for which he had previously written screenplays. Beyond features, Gilroy has recently garnered widespread praise as the creator and central figure behind the acclaimed Disney+ series "Andor," a prequel to "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story," lauded for its sophisticated writing and mature storytelling.

This new production signifies Gilroy’s first feature film in over a decade, a period during which he honed his narrative craft in the television realm. His distinctive style, characterized by intricate plotting, nuanced character development, and a keen sense of moral ambiguity, is expected to infuse "Behemoth!" with a similar intellectual rigor. The story’s focus on the interwoven worlds of music and family ties, coupled with a protagonist grappling with profound personal challenges, suggests a departure from his more overtly political thrillers while retaining his signature depth. Gilroy’s direction is anticipated to bring a sophisticated and contemplative approach to Alex Serian’s journey, exploring the complex interplay between artistic ambition and personal accountability. His return to the big screen after such a successful foray into television is a significant event for cinephiles and industry observers alike, eager to witness his evolution as a storyteller.

Pedro Pascal’s Evolving Repertoire

For Pedro Pascal, "Behemoth!" represents a compelling new chapter in his already diverse and illustrious career. In recent years, Pascal has achieved global superstardom through a series of high-profile roles across film and television, ranging from the stoic titular hero in "The Mandalorian" to the emotionally complex Joel Miller in "The Last of Us," and charismatic turns in blockbuster films. This new role as Alex Serian, a professional classical musician wrestling with deep personal tensions, demands a different register from the actor. It requires not only a convincing portrayal of musical talent but also an intense exploration of a character attempting to reclaim agency over his own life story.

The challenges inherent in portraying a musician of Serian’s caliber, coupled with the emotional vulnerability required to convey a character confronting a distant past, offer Pascal a unique opportunity to showcase his versatility and dramatic range. This role is expected to further solidify his reputation as an actor capable of balancing large-scale commercial projects with intimate, character-driven dramas. Industry analysts suggest that a strong performance in "Behemoth!" could be a pivotal moment, further demonstrating his artistic depth and potentially positioning him for awards consideration in the lead actor categories. The film offers audiences a chance to witness Pascal in a fresh, introspective light, moving beyond the action-oriented or overtly heroic roles that have defined much of his recent fame.

An Ensemble Cast of Noteworthy Talents

Beyond Pascal, "Behemoth!" boasts an impressive ensemble cast, bringing together a mix of established talents and promising actors. The lineup includes Olivia Wilde, Eva Victor, Will Arnett, Matthew Lillard, Margarita Levieva, Hank Azaria, and JoBeth Williams, among others. Olivia Wilde is slated to portray Carol, a character whose role in Alex’s journey is yet to be fully revealed but is expected to be significant given the thematic focus on relationships and identity. The assembly of such a varied and experienced cast under Gilroy’s direction hints at a film rich with character interplay and nuanced performances. Each actor brings a distinct presence and comedic or dramatic sensibility, promising a dynamic collective effort that will deepen the film’s exploration of its complex themes. The collaboration between these actors and Gilroy’s precise storytelling is anticipated to create a compelling and memorable cinematic experience, further enriching the film’s examination of family dynamics, personal reconciliation, and the profound impact of past choices.

Gilroy’s Enduring Connection to the NYFF

The premiere of "Behemoth!" at the New York Film Festival holds particular significance for Tony Gilroy, marking the fulfillment of a long-held personal and professional aspiration. Gilroy has openly shared his profound and long-standing connection to the festival, a relationship that dates back to his formative years. He recounts working in a bar situated near the festival venues during his youth, a period when he received a ticket as a gift to see Werner Herzog’s "Fitzcarraldo" (1982) at the NYFF. This experience, witnessing a seminal work of cinema in such an esteemed setting, left an indelible mark on him and ignited a desire to one day present his own work at the festival.

For Gilroy, bringing "Behemoth!" to the NYFF is not merely a professional milestone but a deeply personal one, symbolizing the culmination of decades of artistic dedication and a tribute to the very institution that helped inspire his cinematic journey. During anticipated press conferences and Q&A sessions, Gilroy is expected to articulate the immense personal pride and sense of achievement he feels in premiering his latest work in a place that has held such personal resonance throughout his career. This narrative adds an extra layer of sentiment to the film’s debut, underscoring the enduring power of film festivals to shape artistic paths and foster lifelong passions.

NYFF64: A Glimpse at the Full Program

"Behemoth!" is undoubtedly a highlight of the 64th New York Film Festival, but it is situated within an equally impressive and diverse program that promises to captivate audiences. The festival has already confirmed its highly anticipated opening and closing night selections, setting the tone for a powerful cinematic journey.

Opening Night: The festival will commence on September 25 with the North American premiere of "Paper Tiger," the latest work from acclaimed director James Gray. Starring a formidable trio of talent—Adam Driver, Miles Teller, and Scarlett Johansson—"Paper Tiger" will be screened at Alice Tully Hall, inaugurating the festival with a significant cinematic event. The film arrives in New York with considerable buzz, having previously held its world premiere in competition at the 2026 Festival de Cannes, where it likely garnered early critical attention. Gray is known for his meticulously crafted dramas that often explore themes of family, destiny, and the human condition, suggesting "Paper Tiger" will offer a rich and complex narrative to kick off the festival.

Closing Night: The 64th NYFF will draw to a close on October 9 with the world premiere of "14th," a new documentary from the visionary filmmaker Ava DuVernay. DuVernay, celebrated for her incisive and impactful storytelling, particularly with films like "Selma" and her groundbreaking documentary "13th" (which explored racial inequality and the U.S. criminal justice system through the lens of the Thirteenth Amendment), returns with a project that promises to be equally thought-provoking. "14th" is expected to build upon the constitutional and social concerns of its predecessor, delving into the intricacies and implications of the Fourteenth Amendment of the United States Constitution. The documentary will likely examine the amendment’s historical context, its evolving interpretations, and its contemporary relevance in ongoing disputes surrounding civil rights, citizenship, and equal protection under the law. DuVernay’s closing night film is poised to provide a powerful and timely reflection on fundamental American principles, fostering critical dialogue on pressing societal issues.

Beyond these marquee presentations, the NYFF traditionally features a Main Slate of new features, including international premieres and critically acclaimed works from other major festivals. Additionally, sections like "Spotlight" highlight significant films, "Revivals" celebrate restored classics, and "Currents" showcases experimental and innovative cinema. The festival’s commitment to diverse programming ensures that attendees will have access to a wide spectrum of cinematic artistry, from large-scale productions to intimate independent features and groundbreaking documentaries.

Broader Implications and Industry Buzz

The inclusion of "Behemoth!" in the 64th New York Film Festival’s prestigious lineup carries significant implications for its theatrical release and potential awards trajectory. Premiering at NYFF, known for its discerning audience and influential critics, positions the film favorably within the industry. The combination of Tony Gilroy’s directorial prestige and Pedro Pascal’s immense and growing international star power creates a potent synergy that is expected to generate substantial buzz. Industry analysts anticipate that "Behemoth!" will be a major talking point, not only for its artistic merit but also for its potential commercial appeal, given Pascal’s widespread fan base.

For Pascal, this film offers a crucial opportunity to expand his artistic range further and potentially enter the conversation for major acting awards. For Gilroy, it signifies a triumphant return to the feature film arena, reaffirming his status as a master storyteller. The festival’s role as a launchpad for critical discussion and awards campaigns means that "Behemoth!" could quickly become one of the year’s most talked-about films. Its October 2 premiere will be one of the earliest opportunities for audiences and critics to witness Pascal’s nuanced portrayal of a musician grappling with profound personal challenges on the big screen, cementing a new facet of his versatile career.

The 64th New York Film Festival, with its carefully curated program featuring compelling dramas, thought-provoking documentaries, and a strong emphasis on artistic integrity, reaffirms its vital role in the global cinematic landscape. It promises an engaging and insightful experience for all who attend, solidifying its reputation as a cornerstone of film culture.