As the Sundance Film Festival draws to a close in Park City, Utah, a palpable sense of nostalgia and excitement fills the air. After decades of calling Park City home, the festival is preparing for its move to Colorado. The 2026 edition, running from January 22nd to February 1st, marks a significant moment in Sundance history, blending a fond farewell to its roots with anticipation for its future.
Leading the charge of star-studded appearances is Natalie Portman, whose presence adds to the festival's signature buzz. Portman stars in "The Gallerist," a dark comedy set in the art world, alongside Charli XCX, Jenna Ortega, and others. The film tells the story of an art dealer attempting to sell a corpse at Art Basel Miami.
Charli XCX is making a splash at this year's festival, appearing in not one, but three films. Besides "The Gallerist," the pop singer-songwriter stars in "The Moment," a self-referential mockumentary that she also produced. She is also cast in "I Want Your Sex".
The 2026 Sundance Film Festival boasts a diverse and compelling lineup of 90 feature films, including a robust selection of documentaries. Several films focus on prominent figures, such as Brittney Griner, Nelson Mandela, Salman Rushdie, Courtney Love, Billie Jean King, and Maria Bamford. "The Brittney Griner Story" explores the basketball star's career and detainment. Other documentaries tackle pressing social and political issues. "American Doctor" follows American doctors working in Gaza. "Who Killed Alex Odeh" examines the assassination of a Palestinian American activist.
Beyond the headlining stars and documentaries, Sundance continues to champion independent and international cinema. This year's program includes "Aanikoobijigan" and "American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez". Sundance promises to deliver deeply human stories and compelling explorations from around the globe.
As the festival prepares to move to Colorado, the 2026 Sundance Film Festival serves as a bridge between its celebrated past and its evolving future. The event promises to be an emotional and memorable farewell to Park City, celebrating the spirit of independent film and the power of storytelling.
