The 24th edition of the Tribeca Festival is set to launch on June 4, 2025, with a highly anticipated world premiere: Billy Joel: And So It Goes, an HBO Original two-part documentary. This milestone event will take place at the historic Beacon Theatre in New York City, marking a powerful tribute to one of America’s most enduring musical icons.
As the festival gears up for its annual celebration of storytelling across film, music, television, audio, games, and immersive experiences, this opening night selection underscores Tribeca’s commitment to honoring artists who have shaped cultural narratives. The festival will run from June 4 to June 15, offering audiences a richly curated lineup that bridges independent creativity with mainstream impact.
A Night of Music, Memory, and Legacy
The choice of Billy Joel: And So It Goes as the opening film is both symbolic and deeply resonant. For decades, Joel’s music has served as a sonic backdrop to American life—his songs weaving personal emotion with universal themes of love, loss, resilience, and identity. The documentary dives into these layers with rare intimacy, featuring never-before-seen performances, private home movies, personal photographs, and candid one-on-one interviews.
Directed by Emmy®-winning filmmaker Susan Lacy and co-directed by Jessica Levin, the film presents a comprehensive portrait of Joel not just as a performer, but as a man whose artistry was forged through personal trials and triumphs. From Long Island roots to global stardom, the documentary traces how his experiences shaped timeless hits like “Piano Man,” “Uptown Girl,” and “New York State of Mind.”
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Why Tribeca Chose Billy Joel
Jane Rosenthal, Co-Founder and CEO of Tribeca Enterprises, emphasized the emotional significance of opening the festival with Joel’s story.
“For nearly 25 years, the Tribeca Festival has celebrated the artists who give New York its heart and soul. On the opening night of the 2025 Festival, we are thrilled to honor Billy Joel—an artist who has embodied that very spirit.”
This sentiment reflects more than nostalgia; it speaks to Joel’s enduring influence on New York’s cultural identity. His music captures the grit, ambition, and vulnerability of urban life—qualities that also define the Tribeca neighborhood itself.
The Beacon Theatre, where the premiere will unfold, adds another layer of historical resonance. A legendary venue for live music since 1929, it has hosted countless iconic performances—making it a fitting stage for a documentary about an artist whose concerts continue to sell out Madison Square Garden year after year.
Behind the Lens: Crafting an Intimate Portrait
Susan Lacy, known for her acclaimed HBO documentaries on figures like Jane Fonda and Steven Spielberg, approached Billy Joel: And So It Goes with a focus on authenticity.
“Jessica Levin and I couldn’t be more thrilled about our film opening the esteemed Tribeca Festival. Our thanks go to Jane Rosenthal, the Festival team, HBO, and especially Billy Joel for trusting us with his story.”
That trust allowed unprecedented access to Joel’s personal archives—offering viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the man behind the music. The two-part format gives space for depth and reflection, avoiding the rushed pacing often seen in celebrity profiles.
Rather than a chronological retelling, the documentary organizes its narrative thematically—exploring relationships, creative process, fame’s burdens, and the weight of legacy. It doesn’t shy away from difficult moments, including Joel’s struggles with mental health and public scrutiny, making it less a biography and more a psychological journey.
What to Expect at the 2025 Tribeca Festival
Beyond the opening night spectacle, the full festival promises a dynamic convergence of art and innovation. Audiences can expect:
- Independent film premieres showcasing emerging global talent
- Live music performances blending genre boundaries
- Immersive storytelling through VR and interactive installations
- Audio storytelling showcases, highlighting the rise of podcast culture
- Industry talks and panels featuring creators across media
This multidisciplinary approach positions Tribeca not just as a film festival, but as a cultural incubator—where ideas spark dialogue and communities connect through shared narratives.
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FAQ: Your Tribeca 2025 Questions Answered
Q: When and where is the 2025 Tribeca Festival taking place?
A: The festival runs from June 4 to June 15, 2025, in New York City, with events held across various venues including the Beacon Theatre.
Q: Is Billy Joel: And So It Goes available to stream now?
A: No. The documentary will have its world premiere at Tribeca on June 4 and will debut on HBO and stream on Max later in summer 2025.
Q: How can I attend the festival?
A: Tribeca Memberships and Festival Passes are currently available. Single tickets go on sale April 29. Visit tribecafilm.com for details.
Q: Who directed the Billy Joel documentary?
A: The film was directed by Susan Lacy and co-directed by Jessica Levin, both Emmy®-winning documentarians with extensive work on HBO.
Q: Will there be other music-focused events at Tribeca 2025?
A: Yes. This year’s program includes a robust music lineup featuring live performances, artist talks, and genre-defying collaborations.
Q: Can I watch the festival online?
A: While select in-person events are exclusive, some screenings and talks may be available via virtual access. Check official channels for updates.
The Evolution of Tribeca: From Revival to Global Influence
Founded in 2001 by Robert De Niro, Jane Rosenthal, and Craig Hatkoff, the Tribeca Festival emerged as a response to tragedy—aimed at revitalizing Lower Manhattan after 9/11. What began as a local initiative has grown into a globally recognized platform for creative expression.
Today, Tribeca stands at the intersection of art and innovation. Its expansion into gaming, immersive tech, and audio storytelling reflects evolving audience habits and digital frontiers. With Lupa Systems acquiring a majority stake in 2019, the organization continues to scale while maintaining its core mission: amplifying diverse voices and fostering connection through story.
Key Partners Powering Creative Vision
The 2025 festival is presented by OKX and supported by leading partners including AT&T, Audible, CHANEL, City National Bank, Don Julio Tequila, Indeed, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, NBC4, The Wall Street Journal, Variety, and Whalar. These collaborations enable ambitious programming while ensuring accessibility and reach.
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Final Thoughts: A Celebration of Enduring Stories
Billy Joel: And So It Goes isn’t just a documentary—it’s a mirror held up to generations who’ve found solace, joy, and identity in song. By opening Tribeca 2025 with this film, organizers reaffirm their belief in storytelling as a force for unity and healing.
Whether you're drawn by music, moved by memoirs, or inspired by innovation, this year’s festival promises an unforgettable journey through the power of narrative.
Stay updated on programming by following @Tribeca on social media using #Tribeca2025 across Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
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