Boots Riley's 'Boosters Are My Favorite' to Open SXSW 2026

Boots Riley is set to premiere his latest movie, I Love Boosters, as the opening film of the 2026 SXSW Film Festival, marking the events 40th anniversary in Austin, the festival announced Thursday. The film centers on a team of professional shoplifters targeting a ruthless fashion mogul. The ensemble cast features Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, Taylour Paige, Poppy Liu, Eiza Gonzalez, LaKeith Stanfield, Don Cheadle, and Demi Moore.

This project is Rileys sophomore feature following the 2018 cult hit Sorry to Bother You, which also starred Stanfield. Rileys recent work includes creating and directing the surreal Prime Video series Im a Virgo.

Neon has scheduled the release of I Love Boosters for May 22, 2026.

Claudette Godfrey, SXSWs VP of Film & TV, said, The Velvet Gang has officially set their sights on Austin, and Opening Night at SXSW 2026 will kick off their global journey! We are thrilled to debut Boots Rileys I Love Boosters. Boots has crafted another wildly original and boundary-pushing vision thats thrillingly unpredictable. Audiences will be immersed in his distinct, subversive world where sharp social commentary blends with surreal storytelling and striking visuals, all supported by an extraordinary cast. This film is bold, entertaining, and promises to launch the festival in unforgettable style. Dont miss The Velvet Gang making their debut!

Author: Riley Thompson