Rob Giardinelli
Austin Film Society’s Toast To Texas Film Inducts Native Austinite Glen Powell Into Texas Film Hall Of Fame
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Heather Leah Kennedy and Mike McKinney
THE SCENE: Troublemaker Studios in Austin was the setting that culminated two nights of fun that honored a native Austinite-turned-Hollywood A-list actor. The sold-out crowd of approximately 300 film lovers, content creators, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for Austin Film Society’s A Toast to Texas Film to induct native Austinite Glen Powell into the Texas Film Hall of Fame.
THE VIBE: The Western-chic crowd began the evening posing for images on the red carpet. Here patrons of AFS mingled with honoree Glen Powell and co-stars from the premiere of his recent hit (pun intended) movie Hit Man who generously posed for images with adoring fans. Once inside, patrons sipped on their favorite cocktails, brimming with anticipation of the night ahead.
Revelers then took to their seats for the evening’s main program. As guests dined on a family-style meal courtesy of Flavor Catering, they were treated to words from event leaders. Next came a series of touching tributes to honoree Glen Powell including words from his Hit Man co-stars Adria Arjona, Sanjay Rao, and Retta, as well as other Texas film director icons including Robert Rodriguez and Richard Linklater.
Perhaps the most touching part of the evening was the emotional and heartfelt toast by Powell’s parents, Glen Sr. and Cyndy, who had the crowd engaged in laughter and joyful tears. The night was capped off with an acceptance speech by the humble and grateful Powell, who credited many people along the way for his success. The evening was capped off with a final surprise: video tributes from fellow Hollywood A-lister Tom Cruise.
THE NON-PROFIT: The event, co-chaired by Tracey LaQuey Parker and Heather Wagner Reed, raised funds for Austin Film Society. Founded in 1985 by Academy Award-nominated Director Richard Linklater, the organization provides life-changing opportunities for aspiring filmmakers, actors, and directors that catalyze Austin and Texas as a creative hub that brings the community together around great film.
