The 2025 Tribeca Film Festival will begin with a true New York icon, Billy Joel. The two-part HBO documentary “Billy Joel: And So It Goes” has been selected as the Opening Night feature, premiering on June 4 at the Beacon Theatre in New York City.
A Perfect Match for the City That Inspired Him
Tribeca co-founder and CEO Jane Rosenthal announced the selection at this year’s NAB Show, saying the Piano Man was the ideal artist to launch the 2025 edition of the festival.
“On the opening night of the 2025 Festival, we are thrilled to honor Billy Joel — an artist who has embodied that very spirit,” said Rosenthal. “There’s no better way to kick off this year’s celebration of creativity and inspiration.”
What Will The Documentary Cover?
According to the official synopsis, And So It Goes offers an intimate and expansive portrait of Billy Joel’s life and music. It explores the love, loss, and personal struggles that have shaped his decades-long career, and features:
- Never-before-seen performances
- Home movies and personal photos
- Extensive one-on-one interviews with Joel
The documentary promises to capture how Joel’s work resonates across generations and why he’s such a beloved figure in American music history.
The Team Behind the Scenes
The documentary was directed by Susan Lacy, known for creating PBS’ American Masters, along with co-director Jessica Levin. It’s being produced as part of Lacy’s deal with HBO.
“We are beyond appreciative of Billy Joel’s trust in us to bring his story to the screen,” said Lacy. “There is no better place for this film to premiere than the Beacon Theater… and in the city so important to Billy Joel.”
Billy Joel: And So It Goes will premiere at Tribeca on June 4 and air on HBO shortly after. The full 2025 Tribeca Film Festival lineup will be announced soon.
