SXSW announces Cabin in the Woods as its opening night film

While the rest of the film press prepares for their annual migration to Park City for the 2012 Sundance Film Festival (including our own Chris Bumbray), I’m instead getting my bags packed for SXSW. Sure, it’s a little early but it’s so much damn fun at this festival. And today, SXSW has announced its Opening Night film and I’m even more excited. The Austin festival will mark the US premiere of Drew Goddard and Joss Whedon’s THE CABIN IN THE WOODS.

The film has seen some considerable delays (by the time it’s released in April, it will be over two years since its originally scheduled release date), and will finally play for audiences on March 10th. In addition, Joss Whedon will be in attendance for “A Conversation with…” panel just two months before THE AVENGERS hits theaters.

I think I’m allowed to say that I’ve seen CABIN and I think I’m allowed to say that it will be well worth the wait. And that I can’t wait to see it with the packed SXSW audience.

Other announcements include a screening of the first three episodes of “Girls,” the upcoming Judd Apatow-produced HBO series from writer/director Lena Dunham. Both Apatow and Dunham will be on hand to discuss the series.

In addition to those panels, DRIVE composer Cliff Martinez and Kevin Smith will each be appearing at panels over the festival week. And there a much more film premieres left over the next two months.