It was not always this way, but, as the program caught on with the public, the rules changed for producers and distributors who want that 'special' treatment at the festival. I think it's going to go over beautifully at the Elgin. It will be a huge event because the talent is coming and people will really be into the evening. The special presentations program also allows the festival to shelter certain films from the scrutiny or unrealistic expectations that the well-heeled corporate crowd imposes on galas. That is true especially when the films are dark.
Some films are prepared for that gala spotlight.
Some need to be protected a little bit. Let people not come with the same set of high expectations as they would if it was a gala. James D. Stern's dark comedic drama about guns, sex and cyberspace. Stars Joan Allen, Jeff Daniels. Benoit Jacquot's drama about a middle-aged businessman newly released from jail.