Jonah Hill screened his directorial debut film Mid90s at Fantastic Fest in Austin.

The film, which features a group of first time actors, was also written and produced by Hill.

Set in 1990s Los Angeles, Mid90s focuses mainly on 13-year-old Stevie who spends his summer navigating between a troubled home life and the group of new friends he meets at a skate shop.

Prior to the screening, Hill told the crowd that he was very excited to be showing the film in Austin.

“You step off the plane and can tell how much people here appreciate film, ” the Academy Award nominee said.

“There’s no place I’d rather show it.”

Both on the red carpet and during the Q&A post screening, it was obvious how much he admires his young cast, many of whom are captivating on screen.

The film also stars Lucas Hedges (who was nominated for an Oscar for Manchester by the Sea) and Katherine Waterston (who plays Tina in the Fantastic Beasts series).

While the script wasn’t all I had hoped for, the production and direction of the film is impressive. I look forward to seeing what Hill brings us in the future.

Fantastic Fest continues through September 27.

Mid90s opens October 19.

Want more Fantastic Fest coverage? Click here to read about the opening night film, Halloween.