In epic takes like “My Undesirable Friends” and playful biopics like “Pavements,” the vital art of the documentary is on full display.

The New York Film Festival is showcasing several very lengthy documentaries, including the 14-hour-long 'exergue,' directed by Dimitris Athyridis.

Recognized directors deliver surprising works that expand both their own horizons and the possibilities of the art at large.

This year’s highlights include Adrien Brody as a genius architect in ‘The Brutalist,’ Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore in Pedro Almodóvar’s first English-language feature, and Selena Gomez and Zoe Saldaña in a sweeping rock musical.

The festival, which runs through Oct. 14, features new films starring Adrien Brody, Daniel Craig, Tilda Swinton, Julianne Moore, Saoirse Ronan, Naomi Watts and Bill Murray.

Stars attend the premiere of ‘Maria’ at the 62nd New York Film Festival on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024, at Alice Tully Hall, Lincoln Center in New York City.

Standout selections include “Nickel Boys,” the Mumbai-set “All We Imagine as Light” and the documentary “Dahomey,” about African repatriation.

The New York Film Festival opened on September 27 with the premiere of 'Nickel Boys,' which wowed and divided audiences in equal measure.

Alessandro Nivola attends The 62nd New York Film Festival's Premiere of 'The Room Next Door' at Alice Tully Hall, New York, NY, October 4, 2024. (Video by Anthony Behar/Sipa USA)