Movie lovers of all generations will have a chance to step onto the red carpet and experience three classic films with the people who helped bring them to life when the 2nd Annual Edgemere Film Fest returns October 22–24 at Edgemere in Dallas.
The complimentary three-day festival will feature screenings of Miss Congeniality, 9 to 5 and Friday Night Lights, followed by conversations with cast members and film experts offering behind-the-scenes stories, personal insights and perspectives on the lasting cultural impact of each movie.
In addition to the films and Q&As, attendees will enjoy red-carpet photo opportunities, music, refreshments, cocktails, giveaways and opportunities to meet featured guests. The festival is open to audiences of all ages.
"We believe that aging is not an epilogue. It's a vital and rich chapter worthy of artistic exploration and celebration," said COO and President of Certus Living Jeff Amann. "The Edgemere Film Fest celebrates aging as a vibrant, relevant, and evolving experience — both on screen and in real life."
The festival opens Thursday, October 22, with Miss Congeniality, the 2000 comedy starring Sandra Bullock, Michael Caine, Benjamin Bratt and Candice Bergen. Following the screening, Farah White (Tennessee) and LeeAnne Locken (Nebraska), who appeared in the film, will share behind-the-scenes stories and memories from their experience making the movie.
On Friday, October 23, the festival will screen 9 to 5, the 1980 comedy starring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. Following the film, Sean Griffin, an author and professor in Southern Methodist University's Meadows Division of Film and Media Arts, will discuss the movie's cultural significance and explore why its themes continue to resonate more than four decades after its release.
The festival concludes Saturday, October 24, with Friday Night Lights, the 2004 football drama starring Billy Bob Thornton, Jay Hernandez and Derek Luke. Based on Buzz Bissinger's acclaimed book about the Permian High Panthers in Odessa, Texas, the film has become a defining sports drama for generations of viewers.
Brad Leland, who portrayed John Aubrey in the film and later became widely known for his role as Buddy Garrity in the Friday Night Lights television series, will participate in a post-screening Q&A.
"The Performing Arts Center is an impressive setting for movies, concerts, lectures, and other events," explained Edgemere Executive Director Teresa Bates. "And our vibrant lifestyle is rooted in a holistic approach to wellness. We know that curiosity, personal fulfillment, and connection are just as important to health and happiness as physical activity."
EVENT DETAILS
WHAT: 2nd Annual Edgemere Film Fest
WHEN: Thursday, October 22 – Saturday, October 24, 2026
WHERE: Edgemere Performing Arts Center, 8523 Thackery St., Dallas, Texas
Daily Schedule:
12:30 p.m. — Guest check-in
1:30–4 p.m. — Film screening and Q&A
4–5 p.m. — Reception, cocktails and red-carpet photo opportunities
FILM LINEUP
Thursday, October 22 — Miss Congeniality
Featuring post-screening appearances by Farah White (Miss Tennessee) and LeeAnne Locken (Miss Nebraska).
Friday, October 23 — 9 to 5
Featuring a post-screening discussion with Sean Griffin, author and professor in SMU's Meadows Division of Film and Media Arts.
Saturday, October 24 — Friday Night Lights
Featuring a post-screening Q&A with Brad Leland.
RSVPs are requested at Debi.Smith@edgemerelife.com.
ABOUT EDGEMERE
Edgemere provides luxury independent living, memory care, assisted living and skilled nursing options for seniors in Dallas' Preston Hollow neighborhood. For more than 25 years, Edgemere has set a standard in senior living by combining resort-style amenities with thoughtful attention to residents' evolving needs. For more information, visit edgemerelife.com.
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