The San Diego International Film Festival Announces Its Full Festival Lineup
Marking its 25th anniversary, the San Diego International Film Festival unveiled its highly anticipated 2026 Festival slate—a dynamic collection of films from around the world that showcases bold voices, compelling stories and the extraordinary power of cinema to entertain, inspire and spark conversation.
Set against the stunning backdrop of California’s coastline, the festival has grown into one of the region’s premier cultural celebrations, bringing together filmmakers, industry leaders and audiences for six unforgettable days of discovery, dialogue and connection.
This year’s Main Slate showcases an exceptional lineup from 22 countries, including eight world premieres, selected from a record-breaking 3,500 submissions. The program features a diverse array of narrative films, documentaries, shorts and animation. Among the highly anticipated titles in this year’s lineup is Martin McDonagh’s “Wild Horse Nine,” starring John Malkovich, Sam Rockwell, Steve Buscemi, Mariana Di Girolamo, Ailín Salas, Tom Waits and Parker Posey.
According to Tonya Mantooth, CEO/artistic director, “As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the San Diego International Film Festival, we’re thrilled to share a lineup that reflects the very best of cinematic storytelling. From international standouts and thought-provoking documentaries to award-winning shorts and highly anticipated premieres, this year’s films showcase diverse voices and bold perspectives that inspire empathy and conversation. This milestone year also gives us an opportunity to honor and celebrate the rich Native American heritage and enduring legacy of the Kumeyaay people, whose ancestral lands we are privileged to gather on. For 25 years, the festival has brought storytellers, changemakers, and cinema enthusiasts together in beautiful San Diego, and we look forward to celebrating this special anniversary with our audiences.”
The festival kicks off with the Night of the Stars Tribute, a red-carpet celebration taking place at The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center in La Jolla on Tuesday, October 13. The Opening Night film premiere and party will follow at THE LOT La Jolla on Wednesday, October 14.
Each year, the San Diego International Film Festival honors some of the film industry’s most accomplished actors, directors, and filmmakers.
Festival organizers are proud to present the Gregory Peck Award of Excellence in Cinema, with the continued support of the Peck family. Past honorees include Laurence Fishburne, Annette Bening, Adrien Brody, Sir Patrick Stewart, Andy Garcia, Kumail Nanjiani, Marlee Matlin, Mark Hamil, Regina Hall, Kenny Loggins, and Geena Davis, among many other distinguished artists.
Culinary Cinema takes place on Sunday, October 18th, offering the perfect recipe for Sunday fun and a dream come true for foodies! Hosted by Shawn Styles from CBS8’s “Cooking with Styles,” the day begins with a cuisine-themed film, followed by a special culinary experience celebrating food, film, and the people who bring them together.
There are a variety of Festival Packages available to suit every budget. Individual screenings can be purchased for $20 all the way up to the VIP PASS PACKAGE for $575. To learn more about Festival ticketing options, visit https://sdfilmfest.com/buy-passes/
The festival kicks off with the Night of the Stars Tribute, a red-carpet celebration taking place at The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center in La Jolla.
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