The Atlanta Film Festival is pleased to unveil the Opening Night Presentation for the 42nd annual festival. BLINDSPOTTING, the upcoming feature film debut from director Carlos López Estrada starring Daveed Diggs, will kick off ATLFF on Friday, April 13, 2018. Diggs, who co-wrote the film with lifelong friend Rafael Casal as a provocative yet challenging love letter to their hometown of Oakland, will attend the April 13 red carpet screening at the Plaza Theatre with Casal and will receive an ATLFF Innovator Award.

This year, ATLFF will launch a new initiative to honor Originators, Innovators and Rebels in the film industry, a symbolic gesture in the spirit of key figures who have helped shape Atlanta's story. Daveed Diggs will be the first recipient of the ATLFF Innovator Award.

BLINDSPOTTING

Directed by Carlos López Estrada
USA, 2018, English, 95 minutes

Collin (Daveed Diggs) must make it through his final three days of probation for a chance at a new beginning.  He and his troublemaking childhood best friend, Miles (Rafael Casal), work as movers and are forced to watch their old neighborhood become a trendy spot in the rapidly gentrifying Bay Area. When a life-altering event causes Collin to miss his mandatory curfew, the two men struggle to maintain their friendship as the changing social landscape exposes their differences.

Lifelong friends Daveed Diggs and Rafael Casal co-wrote and star in this timely and wildly entertaining story about friendship and the intersection of race and class set against the backdrop of Oakland.  Bursting with energy, style and humor, “Blindspotting,” boldly directed by Carlos López Estrada in his feature film debut, is a provocative hometown love letter that glistens with humanity.

Tickets go on sale Friday, March 30, 2018. Badges on sale now!

Before the festival kicks off, the public is invited to an ATLFF Kickoff Party on March 30th at the Rialto Center for the Arts from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Festival attendees will be able to pick up their 2018 badges, purchase tickets and festival merchandise, receive program guides and enjoy food and drinks.