Ruth Bader Ginsburg biopic ‘On the Basis of Sex’ to open AFI Fest

AFI Fest has landed the world premiere of Mimi Leder’s Ruth Bader Ginsburg biopic On the Basis of Sex, starring Oscar nominee Felicity Jones (The Theory of Everything) and Armie Hammer, as the opening night film November 8th. 

The film details the early years of RBG and her ascent to the highest court in the nation, where she still currently sits, having recently celebrated her 25th year on the bench. The film also stars Justin Theroux, Jack Reynor, Cailee Spaeny, Sam Waterston and Oscar winner Kathy Bates.

“AFI was founded to celebrate excellence in the art form and to ensure it for future generations,” Bob Gazzale, AFI president and CEO, said in announcing the opening night film. “On the Basis of Sex brings these dual mandates together as one — a story essential to our times and a triumph for one of the first female directors at the AFI Conservatory. It’s our honor to shine a proper light upon Mimi and this landmark film.”

“As one of the first women ever admitted to the AFI Conservatory, it’s particularly meaningful to me that On the Basis of Sex will open AFI Fest 2018,” director Mimi Leder said. “My time at the Conservatory was a life-changing experience and informed my creative journey. I am forever grateful. The origin story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, in this 25th anniversary year of her appointment to the Supreme Court, couldn’t come at a more important moment in our history nor be shown at a more relevant place than AFI Fest, a symbol of artistic integrity and the enduring power of cinema. I hope girls and young women in particular will see the film and find inspiration to realize their own unlimited potential.”

The 32nd AFI Fest will run November 8-15th at the TCL Chinese Theatre, the TCL Chinese 6 Theatres, the Egyptian Theatre and The Hollywood Roosevelt. 

Focus Features is set to release On the Basis of Sex on Christmas Day.