entertainment

A Road Map to Happiness Premieres at Sundance Film Festival 2026

A Road Map to Happiness premieres at Sundance 2026, featuring global journeys to uncover the essence of happiness.

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PARK CITY, Utah — The highly anticipated series *A Road Map to Happiness* made its grand debut at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival with a captivating teaser screening held at the World of Hyatt in Park City. This innovative series, produced by the Emmy-winning creators behind Netflix's acclaimed *Down to Earth with Zac Efron*, aims to explore the profound essence of human happiness through a series of action-filled, globe-spanning adventures. As the opening event at this year’s festival, the screening introduced audiences to the journey that the series promises to take them on — one that seeks to uncover universal keys to happiness by connecting with the world’s happiest individuals. Guided by a team of celebrated storytellers and cultural explorers, *A Road Map to Happiness* aspires to inspire viewers to transform their ordinary lives into extraordinary experiences through connection, curiosity, and a sense of purpose. To enhance audience engagement, the series has also launched an interactive platform, enabling participants to delve deeper into the themes presented. The star-studded cast includes notable figures such as Alec Baldwin, known for his work on *30 Rock*, and Elijah Wood, best recognized for his role in *The Lord of the Rings*. Joining them are Jason Momoa, the star of *Aquaman*, and Shailene Woodley, who recently appeared in *Ferrari*. The series will also feature co-host Darin Olien, a New York Times bestselling author and the host of the *SuperLife with Darin Olien* podcast, alongside other participants who are yet to be announced. Darin Olien, who has traveled extensively in search of solutions to global issues, expressed his excitement about the project, stating, "I have traveled the world looking for solutions to so many of the issues we face today. What I found is that the search for happiness — and discovering it in diverse cultures and communities — was the only solution needed." His emphasis on the importance of happiness as a fundamental human pursuit resonates throughout the series, which seeks to highlight the diverse ways different cultures find joy and fulfillment. Adding to the discussion of the show, Jason Momoa shared, "People and the planet are at the heart of everything I do. Getting to go on this journey with Darin, a friend and warrior for the Earth, makes it even more special. We’re exploring what connects us, what sustains us, and why protecting it matters." This sentiment underscores the series' mission to celebrate both human connection and environmental stewardship, which are increasingly critical in today's world. Produced by a team of Emmy-winning filmmakers, including Darin Olien, Cary Floyd, Griffin Gmelich, Heather White Rezner, and renowned cinematographer Nick Higgins, *A Road Map to Happiness* promises to blend stunning visuals with deeply human stories. Shailene Woodley reflected on the transformative nature of the series, saying, “I know a lot of lives and hearts will be touched by this project. Simply by how much mine was — it was laughter that renewed my faith in humanity.” This personal connection highlights the series' ability to resonate on a profound level, as it invites viewers to reflect on their own lives and sources of happiness. The screening at the World of Hyatt House was a collaborative event tied to the Sundance Film Festival, which is known for promoting innovative storytelling and cultural exploration. Laurie Blair, a senior vice president at Hyatt, remarked, “As the cast and creators of *A Road Map to Happiness* traveled the globe, they experienced our properties as places of connection, restoration, and inspiration — and our spaces became part of the story itself.” This partnership exemplifies how hospitality and storytelling can intertwine to create enriching experiences for both creators and audiences alike. The first look at *A Road Map to Happiness* presents a powerful invitation to embark on a global journey of discovery that extends beyond the festival. Its themes encourage a shared conversation about what it means to live well, providing a platform for viewers to engage with ideas that are increasingly relevant in today’s fast-paced, often disconnected world. As audiences around the world tune into this series, the hope is that it will foster a deeper understanding of happiness and inspire individuals to seek out joy and connection in their own lives. As the series unfolds, it promises not only to entertain but also to educate and inspire, challenging viewers to reflect on their definitions of happiness and how they can cultivate it within their own communities. With its star-studded cast, expert production team, and universal themes, *A Road Map to Happiness* is set to be a standout feature of the 2026 Sundance Film Festival and a significant contribution to the ongoing conversation about well-being across the globe.