The 2026 Sundance Film Festival kicks off Jan. 22 for one final run in Utah before moving to Boulder, Colorado. So if you’re a Utahn who’s never experienced Sundance, it’s now or never! Here are a few can’t-miss films, plus how to get into a screening even when it sells out.
Can’t-Miss Films
It’s about to be a Brat™ winter with Charli XCX’s much-anticipated A24 mockumentary that reimagines her culture-shifting summer of 2024 as a neon-soaked fever dream. It will feature chaotic cameos by Kylie Jenner, Rachel Sennott, Alexander Skarsgård, and Shygirl.
Fun fact: “The Moment” is one of three movies at the festival featuring Charli XCX.
A Midnight section standout, “Buddy” is a twisted dark comedy about a young girl and her friends trying to escape a children’s television show overtaken by an axe-wielding unicorn mascot. It stars Cristin Milioti and Michael Shannon.
“Once Upon a Time in Harlem” gives a glimpse inside a 1972 party orchestrated by documentary filmmaker William Greaves, bringing together living legends of the Harlem Renaissance.
When Do Individual Tickets Go on Sale?
Individual tickets go on sale Wednesday, Jan. 14 at 10 a.m. Tickets are sold through the official Sundance ticketing portal, and popular premieres often sell out within minutes.
You can build your 2026 Sundance schedule by favoriting films (clicking the stars) and screening times in the Festival Program Guide, which organizes them in your “My Favorites” for easy ticket selection.
How to favorite a Sundance movie. (Sundance Film Festival)
So What If a Movie Sells Out?
Don’t panic! The waitlist system is your friend. If a screening is sold out:
- Join the waitlist two hours before showtime via the Sundance app or website.
- Arrive at the venue early and check in with staff.
- If seats open up due to no-shows, waitlisted attendees are admitted in order.
Pro tip: Second or third screenings often have better waitlist odds than premieres.
