The North American premiere of Hossein Amini’s The Two Faces Of January will open and Chris Messina’s directorial debut Alex of Venice will close the 57th San Francisco International Film Festival.

Amini’s debut and Patricia Highsmith adaptation The Two Faces Of January (pictured) stars Oscar Issac, Viggo Mortensen and Kirsten Dunst in the story of a wealthy couple on holiday in Greece who are plunged into danger alongside a local tour guide.

Alex Of Venice stars Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Messina and Don Johnson and tells of an environmental lawyer whose stay-at-home husband rebels.

“We are delighted to offer these exceptional films by first-time directors who are best known for their work in other areas of the film world,” said newly installed San Francisco Film Society executive director Noah Cowan.

“Championing talented artists who aren’t afraid of taking risks is at the heart of the Film Society’s mission and our ongoing support of filmmakers around the world. I can’t think of a better pair of films to kick off and wrap up what is going to be an amazing festival.”

The festival runs from April 24-May 8.