The 17 Best Films of the 2026 Sundance Film Festival
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The 17 Best Films of the 2026 Sundance Film Festival
"When the 2026 Sundance Film Festival wrapped this weekend, it marked the end of a remarkable run for America's most essential film festival. And while Sundance is very much not over, when it bows in 2027 in Boulder, Colorado, it will look very different. 2026 spelled the last time for many decade-long traditions - splashy premieres at the Eccles, packed parties in strange little retail locations, slushing up and down Main Street,"
"So it should come as no surprise that when he finally got a chance to make a proper feature - one that, with all due respect to the "Adult Swim Yule Log" series, didn't have to be disguised as a glorified screensaver - he delivered a must-see cinematic event. "Buddy" is an easy elevator pitch (it's "Barney" as a horror movie), but the high concept wouldn't have played nearly as well in anyone else's hands."
The 2026 Sundance Film Festival in Park City concluded a long run and will relocate to Boulder, Colorado, for 2027, changing many familiar elements. The final Park City edition marked the last year for decade-long traditions such as splashy premieres at the Eccles, packed parties in odd retail locations, slushing on Main Street, and the Grub Steak salad bar, producing widespread nostalgia. Dozens of reviews and interviews surfaced a set of standout films considered the best of the fest, with notable overlap among jury and audience award winners. A continuously updated list of sales and award winners helps track where and when to see these films. The film lineup was presented alphabetically. Casper Kelly expanded from short-form work to deliver the feature Buddy, a high-concept horror described as "Barney" as a horror movie that succeeds through Kelly's distinct handling.
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