Austin might seem like a strange place to have a gathering for the film industry, but considering the capital of Texas has hosted Hollywood for so long, SXSW is run like a well-oiled machine. While there were no major festivities today, the festival sort of kicked off, with passes being handed out for those hoping to enjoy films - and music and media panels - in Texas.
Personally, this is the first time I’ve covered the event and the first time I’ve spent more time in Texas than an hour between flights. The first thing I did when I got here was get my badge, but I also wanted to check out the Texas State Capitol.
That sounds a bit touristy, sure, but it was fascinating, even if I didn’t spend as much time in there as I would have liked. It’s a massive building and is almost as towering as the U.S. Capital building in Washington D.C. Considering the old cliche that “Everything is bigger in Texas,” the Capital itself certainly proves that.
After that, I stopped in the historic The Driskill, which was built in 1886. I hope to go back there before I leave. I had this delicious Hangover Burger that was incredible.
Austin just feels a bit different from other cities I’ve been to. It seems like it doesn’t really belong in the middle of Texas. The Texas State Capitol was the one thing that really represents the state, with its rich history and statues commemorating Confederate soldiers and the Alamo. It will be interesting to see how the city really transforms once the festival kicks into high gear.
On Friday, things get really busy quickly. The gala premiere this year is the new Russell Brand documentary Brand: A Second Coming. Other screenings on Friday include the Aubrey Plaza movie Ned Rifle and Jonathan Demme’s documentary Made in Texas.
Check back for more SXSW coverage right here!
photos by Daniel S Levine