Renny Harlin's 'Deep Water' to Open Sarasota Film Festival

The survival thriller produced by KISS frontman Gene Simmons will kick off the festival on April 10.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:04pm

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Renny Harlin's survival thriller 'Deep Water', produced by KISS frontman Gene Simmons, is set to open the Sarasota Film Festival on April 10. Both Harlin and Simmons are expected to attend the premiere, which will come ahead of the movie's wide release on May 1.

Why it matters

The Sarasota Film Festival is a prestigious event that helps launch new films and bring attention to the local entertainment industry in Florida. Having a high-profile thriller like 'Deep Water' open the festival is a coup that will likely drive ticket sales and media coverage.

The details

Renny Harlin's 'Deep Water' is a survival thriller that tells the story of a group of people stranded at sea. The film was produced by KISS frontman Gene Simmons, who is also expected to attend the Sarasota Film Festival premiere on April 10.

  • The Sarasota Film Festival is scheduled to take place from April 10-17, 2026.
  • 'Deep Water' is set to have its wide release on May 1, 2026.

The players

Renny Harlin

Renny Harlin is the director of 'Deep Water' and a veteran filmmaker known for action and thriller movies such as 'Die Hard 2' and 'Cliffhanger'.

Gene Simmons

Gene Simmons is the frontman of the rock band KISS and the producer of 'Deep Water'.

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What’s next

The Sarasota Film Festival will run from April 10-17, 2026, with 'Deep Water' kicking off the event on opening night. The film will then have its wide release on May 1, 2026.

The takeaway

The opening night selection of Renny Harlin's 'Deep Water' at the Sarasota Film Festival highlights the festival's ability to attract high-profile films and talent, further cementing its reputation as an important event for the entertainment industry in Florida.