Miami Film Festival Unveils 2026 Lineup and Honors Adam Scott, Bob Odenkirk, Danielle Brooks, Lili Reinhart, and Others
Miami Film Festival Unveils Exciting Lineup for 43rd Edition
The Miami Film Festival (MFF) has announced its program for the 43rd edition of this prestigious international cinematic event, scheduled to run from April 9 to April 19 in Miami, Florida.
This year’s festival will feature a robust lineup of over 160 films, including 40 world premieres, two international premieres, 11 North American premieres, and five U.S. premieres. The festival will kick off with Tuner, the narrative directorial debut by Oscar winner Daniel Roher, featuring Leo Woodall and Dustin Hoffman. The closing night will showcase Power Ballad, directed by John Carney and starring Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas.
Among the centerpiece films are The Christophers, directed by Steven Soderbergh, and Poetic License, the first-time directorial effort by Maude Apatow.
In the realm of documentaries, highlights include the world premieres of The Hollywood Rabbi, directed by Jon Kean, and Madwoman’s Game, directed by Zach Zamboni and executive produced by Keanu Reeves. A special presentation will feature Sofia Coppola’s portrait of fashion designer Marc Jacobs in Marc by Sofia.
James Woolley, the festival’s executive director, commented, “This year’s lineup showcases an extraordinary range of storytelling that reflects the richness of global cinema and the vibrant creative voices shaping the future of film. We are proud to welcome audiences back for a dynamic celebration of film that connects Miami to the world.”
MFF will also host noteworthy special events, such as the U.S. premiere of Milly: Queen of Merengue at the Miami Beach Bandshell, featuring attendance by director Leticia Tonos Paniagua and Dominican singer Milly Quezada. Another event, Whiplash in Concert, will present a screening of the film accompanied by a live 18-piece jazz band, with composer Justin Hurwitz conducting. Additionally, there will be a 25th-anniversary screening of The Princess Diaries at the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens.
Director of Programming Lauren Cohen emphasized the significance of this year’s films, stating, “This lineup reflects an extraordinary moment for Miami Film Festival, featuring films from celebrated filmmakers like Steven Soderbergh and Sofia Coppola, alongside bold new discoveries from around the world.” She noted the participation of films from 45 different countries and highlighted the festival’s largest-ever "Made-in-MIA" program.
Among the honorees, Adam Scott will receive the Vanguard Award for his role in Hokum, while Bob Odenkirk will be honored with the Precious Gem Award after a screening of Normal. Danielle Brooks, who stars in If I Go Will They Miss Me, will receive the Art of Light Award.
The festival will also recognize Lili Reinhart and Matt Bomer with the Art of Light Award and Vanguard Award, respectively, alongside Sonia Manzano, who will receive the Impact Award for her contributions to television.
The MFF will host various award competitions, including the $10,000 MARIMBAS Award for new narrative feature films and the Jordan Ressler First Feature Award. The Made in MIA Award will award $15,000 to a film prominently showcasing South Florida in its storytelling.
With an array of international features, documentaries, and engaging events, the Miami Film Festival promises to be a dynamic celebration of cinema that highlights both local and global talent.
