The Viennale is happy to announce this year's opening film: MANCHESTER BY THE SEA by american director and screenwriter Kenneth Lonergan. The movie starring Casey Affleck, Michelle Williams, Matthew Broderick and Lucas Hedges already created a buzz at the festivals of Toronto, Sundance and Telluride and is a top candidate for the next Academy Awards. MANCHESTER BY THE SEA is Lonergan's third feature after YOU CAN COUNT ON ME (2000) and MARGARET (2011), which won the International Film Critic's Award at Viennale 2012.

Kenneth Lonergan will be present at the Viennale opening gala and will attend the other screenings to discuss his film with the audience. Furthermore there will be a tribute dedicated to him during the festival.