Tony Gilroy’s Behemoth! Will World Premiere as the Centerpiece of the 64th New York Film Festival.

      Marking his first feature in 14 years and first original work in 17, Tony Gilroy’s *Behemoth!* has been announced to premiere as the Centerpiece selection of the 64th New York Film Festival. The screening will be held at Alice Tully Hall on Friday, October 2, with Gilroy, Pedro Pascal, and more cast members present. This event also signifies the first NYFF Centerpiece to have its world premiere in a decade, the previous being Mike Mills’s *20th Century Women* in 2016.

      The NYFF synopsis states: “Pedro Pascal delivers the performance of his career as Alex, a cellist trying to rebuild his life, in this American drama that exhibits remarkable intelligence, humor, and elegance from Academy Award–nominated writer-director Tony Gilroy (Michael Clayton). Once a child prodigy overshadowed by a famed musical family, Alex has left his position with a Chicago orchestra—escaping a troubled relationship with a tumultuous ex (an explosive Olivia Wilde)—and returned to Los Angeles to compose Hollywood film scores and settle unfinished family matters. Employing an adept flashback structure to navigate through his adult life while skillfully integrating a range of original movie compositions that both support and reflect his journey (featuring nine top industry musicians), Gilroy transforms Alex’s quest for stability, purpose, and redemption into a sophisticated drama of the highest caliber. *Behemoth!* is a powerful, astute homage to music that culminates in an emotionally impactful climax, showcasing outstanding performances from Eva Victor, Alexa Swinton, Kaya Ralls, Erik Griffin, JoBeth Williams, and Margarita Levieva, with Hank Azaria and Will Arnett. It’s a release from Searchlight Pictures.”

      “I have been connected to NYFF for most of my life,” Gilroy expressed. “My introduction was through *Fitzcarraldo*. I was bartending nearby and a customer gave me a single ticket. Though it was a poor seat, it was the most unforgettable screening I have ever attended. Many unforgettable nights followed. The invitation to be the Centerpiece feels like a fantasy I’ve imagined more times than I can count. NYFF has always set the standard for me; the chance to premiere a film I’m eager to share in that hall, with that audience, is just as exhilarating as I envisioned. I’m deeply honored.”

      “We are thrilled to showcase the world premiere of Tony Gilroy’s highly anticipated return to film as this year’s NYFF Centerpiece,” stated Dennis Lim, NYFF Artistic Director. “There is so much to appreciate in this impeccably crafted film, from its inventive use of music to its flawless ensemble cast. At the core is a remarkable performance by Pedro Pascal, certainly one of the standout performances of the year from one of cinema’s genuine stars.”

      The 64th New York Film Festival, which kicks off with James Gray’s *Paper Tiger* and concludes with Ava DuVernay’s *14th*, will take place from September 25 to October 12, 2026, with passes currently available for purchase.

      Watch the teaser for *Behemoth!* below and find out more here: