The yearly Virginia Film Festival kicks off later this week in Charlottesville and the guests include actor John Turturro and veteran director John Sayles.

Turturro, famous for his roles in "Quiz Show," "The Big Lebowski" and "O Brother, Where Art Thou?," will present his work as a writer and director, including his first film, "Mac," and his latest, "Romance and Cigarettes."

The festival is hosted by the University of Virginia. It opens Thursday and will feature 90 films centered around the theme of "Kin Flicks," movies that explore the dynamics of family life.

The festival also will feature actor and University of Virginia alumnus Sean Patrick Thomas. Thomas will be featured as an actor in Sayles' upcoming "Honeydripper." The movie will open the festival Thursday night.