By the Sea, the romantic drama starring Angelina Jolie Pitt (Maleficent) and Brad Pitt (World War Z), will have its world premiere at the Opening Night Gala of this year’s AFI Fest.  The film, written, directed and produced by Jolie Pitt, is the first time the actress and her husband have shared a screen since 2007’s Mr. & Mrs. Smith. The story, based on Jolie Pitt’s original idea, focuses on a couple traveling together in 1970’s France, dealing with their faltering relationship. Arriving in a quaint seaside town, their contact with the free spirited locals further tests their bonds. Mélanie Laurent (Inglourious Basterds), Mevil Poupoud (Lawrence Anyways), and Niels Arestrup (A Prophet) give the supporting cast an international flare.

This is Jolie Pitt’s third time in the director’s chair, following 2011’s In The Land of Blood and Honey and last year’s Unbroken.  Said Jacqueline Lyanga, Director, AFI Fest:

We are launching this year’s AFI FEST with a film that is fueled by the influence of both American and foreign cinema. Angelina Jolie Pitt’s intelligent artistry in BY THE SEA proves that she is one of today’s most creative and expressive filmmakers. It is a perfect way to kick off what will be eight days of incredible films from Hollywood and across the globe.

The AFI Fest Opening Night Gala is Thursday November 5 at the historic TCL Chinese Theater in Hollywood. The festival runs through November 12. By the Sea hits theaters nationwide on November 13.  Check out the trailer below: