The upcoming 2026 Palm Springs International Film Festival is set to captivate audiences with its remarkable lineup, headlined by Maryam Touzani’s “Calle Málaga” and Brian Cox’s “Glenrothan.” This prestigious event will feature a diverse array of films, offering a global cinematic experience that showcases the creativity and talent of filmmakers from around the world. As excitement builds, these two films promise to be standout highlights at the festival’s opening and closing nights.
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A Glamorous Opening with “Calle Málaga”
The festival will commence on January 2 with “Calle Málaga,” a Spanish-language film directed by the acclaimed Moroccan filmmaker Maryam Touzani. This marks Touzani’s directorial debut, and the film features the legendary Carmen Maura as an elderly woman battling to maintain her home and independence in Tangier, Morocco. With Touzani in attendance, the premiere is expected to draw significant interest, setting a high bar for the festival’s offerings.
“Glenrothan” to Conclude the Festival
The closing night on January 11 will spotlight “Glenrothan,” directed by and starring Brian Cox, with Alan Cumming co-starring. This heartfelt film delves into the story of two estranged brothers reunited at their family’s whiskey distillery in their Scottish hometown. The screening at the Richards Center for the Arts will provide a fittingly emotional conclusion to the festival, with Cox’s presence adding to the anticipation.
Diverse and Exciting Lineup
Alongside “Calle Málaga” and “Glenrothan,” the festival will feature 168 films from 72 countries, including 53 premieres and 44 entries for the International Feature Film Oscar submissions. Noteworthy participants include Oscar Isaac in “King Hamlet,” Kim Novak in “Kim Novak’s Vertigo,” and Paul Feig directing “The Housemaid.” These films promise to deliver powerful narratives and exceptional performances to the festival’s attendees.
Engaging Programs and Highlights
The Palm Springs International Film Festival will also present a yve-style.com of engaging programs. Highlights include the Gateway Films series, curated by notable figures such as Diane Kruger and Leonard Maltin, and Family Day showcasing family-friendly animations. Additionally, the festival will offer suspenseful films in the After Dark series, spotlight locally-made movies, and celebrate documentaries with Close-Ups. These programs enhance the festival’s reputation as a vibrant cinematic event.
Artistic Director Lili Rodriguez expressed enthusiasm for the 2026 festival, stating, “Our lineup is a celebration of stories that move us, challenge us, and remind us why we love movies. We can’t wait for audiences to feel that spark that only cinema brings.”
For more details on the lineup and programs, visit the Palm Springs International Film Society’s website.