The Science & Craft of Storytelling: How to Make People Care

Twenty-five years ago, Ray Kurzweil predicted computers would reach human-level intelligence by 2029, unlocking solutions to the world’s grandest challenges. Today we are right on track to reach this milestone. During the 2030s, AI will become superintelligent, vastly outstripping our capabilities and enabling dramatic medical breakthroughs to overcome aging. This is not an alien invasion. AI is evolving from within us and will reflect our humanity. By 2045, we will connect our brains directly to the cloud, enhancing our intelligence a millionfold and expanding our consciousness in ways we can barely imagine. This is the Singularity.

It’s tempting to share only the highlight reel of our lives, but when we’re open about the difficult moments as well, we make it easier to tap into our emotions and create space for other people to process theirs, too. In this panel session, Wondermind co-founders Selena Gomez and Mandy Teefey will explore the importance of bringing mental health conversations into the light alongside Solomon Thomas and Dr. Corey Yeager - not just for decreasing stigma and building awareness, but as a way to deal in hard times. Moderated by Dr. Jessica Stern, the conversation will cover the importance of flexibility over strict routines in mental healthcare, dealing with negative self-talk, and getting real about when you’re not feeling OK.

On the heels of CIVIL WAR's world premiere at SXSW, Academy Award nominated filmmaker and genre master Alex Garland (EX MACHINA, ANNIHILATION, 28 DAYS LATER) will participate in an in-depth conversation about the making of his latest adrenaline-fueled thrill ride that takes us through a near-future fractured America balanced on the razor's edge. Cast members Kirsten Dunst, Wagner Moura, and Cailee Spaeny will also join.

Feeling overwhelmed, disappointed, or straight up bleak about the political landscape in this crucial election year? This panel will discover why voting at the local, city and state-level matters more than you think, with artists, activists, and elected officials who may, dare we say, give you a little hope.

Embark on a journey through the dynamic universe of Dwyane Wade, an NBA legend not just defined by his prowess on the court but also his remarkable impact off it. From delivering captivating speeches to making striking statements in the realms of fashion and design, Wade's entrepreneurial spirit shines brightly. Dive into his entrepreneurial ventures and uncover how this basketball icon has masterfully crafted a diversified empire in business.

We all make on average 35,000 decisions a day--and on each episode of her podcast Choice Words, Samantha Bee and her guests unpack big and small ones that have shaped their lives and careers. So make a good choice and join Sam for a live recording of her podcast Choice Words featuring Ilana Glazer, Pamela Adlon, and Michelle Buteau.

Following his 11-year run with “CONAN" on TBS, solidifying his 28-year career as an award-winning late-night host and one of the longest tenures in late night history, Conan O'Brien is returning to television! Join the beloved comedian as he talks about his new travel series CONAN O’BRIEN MUST GO. Fans in the room will witness never-before-seen footage of the four-episode series featuring O’Brien visiting new friends met through his podcast, "Conan O'Brien Needs a Fan," where he dives deep with listeners from across the country and the world. Produced by Conaco, CONAN O'BRIEN MUST GO is executive produced by O’Brien and Jeff Ross.

The Hollywood Reporter will host a live "Office Space" reunion event at SXSW to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Mike Judge's cult-comedy classic. Judge, who wrote and directed the 1999 movie (which was filmed in Austin), will appear alongside cast-members for a lively, fan-driven conversation with Hollywood Reporter Contributing Editor, Stacey Wilson Hunt.

Two-time Emmy-nominated actress and producer Sydney Sweeney has become one of the most sought-after talents of her generation, captivating global audiences with her many buzz-worthy, critically acclaimed, and iconic roles. Sweeney can most recently be seen starring opposite Glen Powell in Will Gluck’s R-rated romantic comedy ANYONE BUT YOU, which broke box office records for the 2023 holiday season. She also recently made her highly anticipated debut as ‘Julia Carpenter’ (aka Spider Woman) in Sony’s Marvel universe alongside Dakota Johnson with the release of MADAME WEB. Sweeney will next be seen starring in the psychological horror film IMMACULATE for Black Bear Pictures, which she developed alongside producer David Bernad, following their highly successful collaboration on WHITE LOTUS. Now streaming on MAX, Sweeney’s film REALITY marked her international film debut at the 2023 Berlinale Film Festival with the film’s world premiere, where she played former US Airforce Translator and whistleblower Reality Winner. She is currently in production filming an upcoming survival thriller ‘EDEN.’ Directed by Ron Howard, Sweeney will star in this film alongside Ana de Armas, Vanessa Kirby, and Jude Law. Sweeney recently started production on the Apple Original Films’ thriller ECHO VALLEY where she will also star opposite Julianne Moore and Domhnall Gleeson. As the standout character ‘Cassie’ in HBO’s EUPHORIA, Sweeney’s exceptional work in Season 2 captured the attention of viewers, earning her a 2022 Emmy nomination for her performance in the category of “Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.” Prior to the second season of EUPHORIA, Sydney’s name was on everyone’s lips due to her turn as the seemingly woke millennial ‘Olivia’ who dished out side-eye and microaggressions every chance she had in HBO’s THE WHITE LOTUS. The inception of Sweeney’s production company, Fifty-Fifty Films, came from the desire to reclaim professional autonomy by identifying and giving wind to projects she finds interesting, challenging, and relevant. Partnering with Jonathan Davino in 2019, Fifty-Fifty Films continues to remain focused on building impactful projects that are inclusive and purposeful. Currently in development as starring vehicles are THE PLAYER’S TABLE with Fifth Season, THE REGISTRATION for Sony Pictures, based on Madison Lawson’s novel, with Fuller Media and THE CARETAKER for Universal Pictures, alongside Michael Bay and Brad Fuller for Platinum Dunes.

From AI-powered composition and artwork creation to voiceprints and curated playlists, AI is changing the way artists create and market their music, and engage with their fans. With these new tools comes a new set of challenges and responsibilities for the music industry. Artists can harness the power of AI but it is the responsibility of companies across the industry to ensure that human artistry is supported, not replaced. Panelists will present principles for companies to consider as artists engage with AI opportunities as well as results & lessons learned from early AI pilot programs.