Sundance 2026 Highlights: Breakout Films & Major Deals

Riley Calderon

Published: January 30, 2026 10:27 AM ET

The 2026 Sundance Film Festival marked its final days in Park City, Utah, wrapping up an era that spanned over four decades. As it prepares to move to Boulder, Colorado, in 2027, attendees reminisced about the festival’s deep-rooted history. This year’s gatherings sparked nostalgia for many, from filmmakers to volunteers.

Sundance 2026 Highlights: Breakout Films & Major Deals

A significant highlight was the emotional anniversary screening of “Little Miss Sunshine.” Filmmakers Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris, along with cast members Toni Collette, Greg Kinnear, Paul Dano, and Abigail Breslin, reunited at the Eccles Theater, two decades after the film’s premiere. Festival director Eugene Hernandez praised the film, recognizing its powerful impact on the audience.

Focus on Discovery

This year, first-time feature filmmakers represented approximately 40% of the festival’s lineup. Sundance programming director Kim Yutani emphasized their commitment to showcasing new talent and expressed satisfaction with the festival’s achievements.

Notable Events and Political Climate

The festival was not insulated from current events. A Congressman faced assault at an after-party, underscoring the political tensions ongoing in the country.
Attendees displayed “ICE OUT” pins, including prominent figures like Natalie Portman.
Discussions surrounding films like “The AI Doc: Or How I Became an Apocaloptimist” highlighted themes of societal concerns.

Memorable Experiences

Entertainment flourished alongside the film screenings. Charli XCX hosted a lively party for her film “The Moment,” keeping guests dancing until dawn. The documentary “Give Me the Ball!” featuring Billie Jean King also received enthusiastic applause, while musical performances by Rufus Wainwright and Norah Jones celebrated classic songs.

Standout Films and Acquisitions

Among the most anticipated films were:

“The Invite”: Directed by Olivia Wilde, this chamber dramedy sparked a bidding war, with A24 securing rights for approximately $12 million.
“Josephine”: This drama from Beth De Araújo tells the harrowing story of a young girl confronting trauma. It is still seeking distribution.
“Leviticus”: A queer horror film by Adrian Chiarella garnered quick attention from Neon, with a reported seven-figure deal.
“Once Upon a Time in Harlem”: This documentary, over 50 years in the making, serves as an essential documentation of Harlem’s cultural legacy.

Other Buzzworthy Titles

John Turturro received acclaim for his role in “The Only Living Pickpocket in New York.”
“Wicker,” a fantasy featuring Olivia Colman, drew considerable interest, showcasing unique storytelling.
“Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass,” a humorous take on classic tales, entertained audiences with its star-studded cast.
Rinko Kikuchi delighted viewers with her performance in “Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty,” set in the Tokyo ballroom scene.

While the festival concludes its Park City chapter, opportunities for future distribution and audience engagement remain strong. Festival officials anticipate that many of these films will find their place in wider cinema, leaving a lasting legacy beyond Sundance.

For ongoing coverage of the Sundance Film Festival and additional film insights, visit Filmogaz.com.