The Sundance Institute has officially announced the lineup for the 2026 Sundance Film Festival’s Beyond Film programming, a series of artist conversations and expert talks that aim to enrich the festival experience. This year's talks and events will take place from Friday, January 23, to Friday, January 30, 2026, and will feature a diverse range of speakers and topics that underscore the festival's commitment to storytelling and artistic innovation. This year's festival will occur in person from January 22 to February 1, 2026, in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah. For those unable to attend in person, an at-home program will be available online from January 29 to February 1, allowing audiences across the nation to participate. Tickets for single film screenings, both in-person and online, will go on sale on January 14 at 10 a.m. via the Sundance Film Festival website. 2026 is particularly significant as it marks a tribute to Robert Redford, the festival's founder, whose vision has inspired countless artists over the years. The festival will honor his legacy through various programming elements, especially during the second half of the event, which includes the Park City Legacy program. This program will showcase archival screenings of iconic films from previous editions, artist discussions featuring notable alumni, and community engagement activities. The Beyond Film programming aims to provide a unique, interactive experience for festival attendees. It will include a series of discussions, filmmaker panels, and audience engagement opportunities. Among the highlights this year are Cinema Café, presented by Audible, and a session titled The Big Conversation: From Fire to Flight, which will delve into the relationship between humans, technology, and time. Prominent figures in the film industry will participate in this year's Beyond Film events. Notable participants include Olivia Wilde, Ava DuVernay, Salman Rushdie, Richard Linklater, and Billie Jean King. These conversations will offer audiences insight into the creative processes of these influential artists and their impact on contemporary cinema and culture. A special live podcast recording of “Visitations” featuring James Wan, with hosts Elijah Wood and Daniel Noah, also promises to be a key attraction. This year’s programming also includes a focused conversation titled “Power of Story: On Legacy,” featuring prominent voices like Ta-Nehisi Coates and Alex Gibney, underscoring the significance of storytelling in shaping cultural narratives. Kim Yutani, the director of programming for the Sundance Film Festival, expressed excitement about the Beyond Film lineup, emphasizing the unique opportunity to bring together diverse voices to explore themes of legacy and artistic expression. "We look forward to bringing bold and inspiring voices together to explore the themes in this year’s program of new films, as well as celebrating our shared history with Utah through our Park City Legacy program talks and our signature Power of Story conversation held at the iconic Egyptian Theatre,” Yutani stated. Ania Trzebiatowska, the Beyond Film program curator, highlighted the importance of this year's programming, noting that it serves as a platform for expanding perspectives and celebrating the resilient creative spirit at the heart of the festival. “As we gather in Park City, we recognize the privilege of sharing this space — of looking beyond the screens, honoring our legacy and connecting with the artists and audiences who shape how we see the world,” Trzebiatowska remarked. All Beyond Film talks and events will be free to the public, except for the Power of Story event, which will require a paid ticket for entry. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early for popular sessions, as seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. For those attending in person, festival identification will be necessary for entry into all events, and digital tickets must be secured for the Power of Story event. In addition to the Beyond Film discussions, the Sundance Institute’s Story Forum, presented by Adobe, is set to take place on January 26. This event will gather creators, educators, and industry leaders to explore the latest advancements in storytelling and technology. The Story Forum will also offer a free online program on January 29 and 30, expanding the reach of these vital conversations to a broader audience. As the Sundance Film Festival gears up for its 2026 edition, the combination of film screenings and enriching dialogue promises to make for a significant and memorable event. With a focus on legacy, innovation, and community engagement, the festival continues to reaffirm its position as a key player in the landscape of independent cinema and storytelling. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Sundance Film Festival website.