Tribeca Festival Marks 24th Year With Record Submissions, Major Star Attendance

The Tribeca Festival celebrated its 24th year in 2025, continuing its evolution from a film-centric event to a broader celebration of storytelling that now includes video games and podcasts. Founded by Robert De Niro, Jane Rosenthal, and Craig Hatkoff shortly before the September 11 attacks, the festival was initially intended to help revitalize Lower Manhattan and bring the community together after the devastation. Rosenthal emphasizes that beyond economic impact, the festival's core mission is discovering diverse voices and fostering community connection, describing it as a 'group hug' for attendees. The festival has grown significantly over the years, with initiatives like the Storytelling Summit enhancing its role as a hub for creative industry collaboration. The 2025 event featured high-profile premieres, including the Billy Joel documentary "And So It Goes," and brought together major celebrities such as Tom Hanks and Robert De Niro on its red carpet. De Niro and Rosenthal reflect on the festival's journey and its significance both as a cultural institution and a community revitalizer.