Warren Beatty’s ‘Rules Don’t Apply’ to open AFI Fest

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Warren Beatty’s first film in 18 years will open the 2016 AFI Fest which runs from November 10-17. Beatty received the AFI Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008.

Rules Don’t Apply, which Beatty also wrote and co-produced, is a dramedy revolving around the romantic entanglements of an ingenue actress (played by Lily Collins) and a driver (played by the new Han Solo, Alden Ehrenreich), both of whom are employed by eccentric billionaire Howard Hughes (played by Beatty).

The cast also includes Alec Baldwin, Annette Bening, Candice Bergen, Steve Coogan, Ed Harris, Haley Bennett, Matthew Broderick, Dabney Coleman, Taissa Farmiga, Megan Hilty, Oliver Platt and Martin Sheen.

“Warren Beatty has charmed and challenged moviegoers from his first moment on screen, and his talents as an actor, director, writer and producer have always transcended trends,” said Bob Gazzale, AFI president and CEO. “AFI is honored to present the world premiere of his newest gift to America’s cultural legacy.”

We’re not quite sure yet if the film will be a major awards player but it’s hard to disregard the pedigree of someone like Warren Beatty; 14 Oscar nominations, including a directing win for Reds and the recipient of the Irving Thalberg Award in 1999. That said, previous opening night films for AFI Fest have proven to be high-profile films that attract big stars but don’t end up being Oscar favorites. The last five years: By the Sea (2015), A Most Violent Year (2014), Saving Mr. Banks (2013), Hitchcock (2012), J. Edgar (2011), Love and Other Drugs (2010).

20th Century Fox is set to release Rules Don’t Apply on November 23rd.