SALLYWOOD: A Heartfelt Hollywood Journey Now Streaming on Digital Platforms

On November 14, 2025, Buffalo 8 released SALLYWOOD, a charming, emotional, and unexpectedly profound indie feature that has already captured hearts on the festival circuit. With over 50 awards to its name, the film arrives on digital platforms backed by critical acclaim, extraordinary performances, and a true story that celebrates dreams, devotion, and the unpredictable magic of Hollywood.

At the center of SALLYWOOD is the legendary Sally Kirkland, an Oscar® nominee and Golden Globe® winner whose vibrant personality and emotional depth defined her acclaimed career. In this film—based directly on real events—Kirkland delivers a performance that is both self-reflective and brave, stepping into a fictionalized version of herself during a turbulent chapter of her life. Her willingness to lean into vulnerability becomes one of the film’s most compelling strengths.

A Story Rooted in Real-Life Dreams

SALLYWOOD follows Zack, a young writer from rural Maine who dreams of a Hollywood career. Inspired by Sally Kirkland’s unforgettable performance in the 1987 sleeper hit ANNA—a role that earned her an Academy Award nomination, an Independent Spirit Award, and a Golden Globe—the ambitious 20-something takes a life-changing leap. With nothing more than determination and a car full of belongings, he drives cross-country to Los Angeles.

Fate wastes no time intervening. In an almost unbelievable twist, Zack encounters his lifelong idol Sally Kirkland during his very first week in the city. Their meeting is serendipitous. Sally, impressed by Zack’s enthusiasm and sincerity, hires him on the spot to be her personal assistant.

What follows is a moving exploration of loyalty, resilience, and the often-hidden struggles behind Hollywood glamour. Zack quickly discovers that Sally’s career—once adorned with awards and critical praise—is now in disarray. Instead of giving up, he dedicates himself to helping revive her presence in the industry. His mission evolves into something more profound than merely helping a star get back on the red carpet; it becomes an emotional journey of friendship, redemption, and belief in one another.

A Stellar Ensemble Cast

In addition to Sally Kirkland, SALLYWOOD showcases an impressive roster of celebrated actors. The film features:

Eric Roberts – Oscar® and Golden Globe® nominee

Michael Lerner – Oscar® nominee

Keith Carradine – Oscar® and Golden Globe® winner

Jennifer Tilly – Oscar® nominee

Lenny Von Dohlen, Kay Lenz, Tom Connolly, Tyler Steelman, and Maria Conchita Alonso

This ensemble brings depth, humor, and gravitas to the film, elevating it beyond a simple story of ambition into a layered reflection on fame, aging, and the power of human connection.

The Creative Vision Behind the Film

SALLYWOOD was written and directed by Xaque Gruber, whose sharp, heartfelt storytelling guides the narrative with warmth and humor. The film’s producer, Steven J. Wolfe, helps shape a world that feels both grounded in reality and sprinkled with Hollywood magic.

A bonus delight for viewers is the soundtrack, which features music by renowned artists Rufus Wainwright, Toni Basil, and Smokey Miles. Their songs punctuate the emotional beats of the story, enhancing its nostalgic and inspirational tone.

Festival Triumphs and Release Details

Before its digital release, SALLYWOOD spent time on the festival circuit, where it amassed more than 50 awards, a testament to its wide appeal and heartfelt storytelling. Praised for both performance and narrative, the film resonated with audiences who identified with its themes of perseverance, personal reinvention, and the enduring spark of artistic passion.

The film’s runtime is 90 minutes, and it is not rated by the MPAA. Its digital release on November 14, 2025, allows audiences worldwide to experience its charm from home. For an intimate, uplifting, and often humorous window into Hollywood life, SALLYWOOD stands out as one of the year’s most emotionally honest independent films.

A Film That Celebrates Hope

At its core, SALLYWOOD is much more than a behind-the-scenes look at an iconic actress’s life. It’s a film that celebrates the courage to dream, the beauty of unexpected mentorship, and the way two people—at vastly different stages in their lives—can change each other for the better.

Zack’s journey from small-town writer to trusted companion mirrors the experience of many young dreamers who come to Hollywood seeking purpose. Sally’s arc, meanwhile, is a thoughtful examination of aging in the entertainment industry and the resilience required to continue moving forward.

Together, they create something both humorous and heartfelt: a shared story of ambition, struggle, and triumph.