The Poppy Jasper International Film Festival has announced its 2026 film lineup and the festival’s commemorative artwork designed by Brazilian creator Leandro Sena to celebrate its 20th anniversary. The festival, which aims to uplift independent filmmakers and expand global cinematic storytelling, will be held from April 8th to 15th in Morgan Hill, San Martin, Gilroy, Hollister, and San Juan Bautista, California.
“We are honored to work with the Poppy Jasper International Film Festival during such an important year,” Senna said in a statement. “Celebrating our 20th anniversary is a powerful accomplishment and a reflection of the dedication and passion that lives in these communities. We are proud to contribute to a festival that supports filmmakers, strengthens local culture, and keeps the art of storytelling alive.”
Director Alex Caulfield’s “What Comes Next” will headline the narrative line-up, joining a program featuring Honey Lauren’s “Mistake,” Emanuela Galussi and Dean Ronald’s “Zoe,” and Daniel J. Clark’s “American Comics.” Other highlights include “The Mother, the Menacer and Me” directed by John Salmon, “Honeyjoon” directed by Lillian T. Merrell, “Censurada” directed by Mario Garza, “T” directed by Lane Michael Stanley, and “Eugene O’Neill’s The First Man” directed by Hardeep Giani.
The lineup of documentaries includes The Invisible Mammal directed by Christine Tiesch, Halcyon Days directed by Carrie Coplen, From Here / From There (De Aquí / De Allá) directed by Marlene “Moe” Morris, The Window on Death Row directed by Linda Freund, Voices: The Danny Gans Story directed by Andrew Davis Gans, and Nina the Athlete” is included. and “Broken Dolls and Ben Between Africa” by Ali Ali.
“We are both humbled and excited to celebrate our 20th anniversary,” festival director Matti Scariot said in a statement. “This year’s program reflects the core of what PJIFF has championed for two decades: bold voices, inclusive storytelling, and communities coming together through film. Our 2026 lineup honors where we’ve been while embracing a vibrant, boundary-pushing future.”
Internationally respected film professional Ron Fogel will serve as PJIFF’s distinguished juror. On April 13th, PJIFF will hold its annual “Mexico to Day” and will present the PJIFF Icon Award to Rick Najera and Grammy nominee Eugene Rodriguez. Playwright and film director Luis Valdez will be the keynote speaker.
Monday, December 22nd
Noah Schnapp, Quinta Brunson, Marcello Hernandez, Colman Domingo and Regina Hall are among the presenters scheduled to appear at the 31st Annual Critics’ Choice Awards.
Additional presenters include Arden Cho, Ali Larter, Alicia Silverstone, Allison Janney, Bradley Whitford, Billy Bob Thornton, Ava DuVernay, Diego Luna, EJAE, Hannah Einbinder, Jeff Goldblum, Jessica Williams, Justin Hartley, Justin Sylvester, Kaley Cuoco, Keltie Knight, McKenna Grace, Michelle Randolph, and Owen. Cooper, Rhea Seehorn, Sebastian Maniscalco, and William H. Macy.
As previously announced, this year’s awards ceremony will introduce five new categories: Variety Series, Stunt Design, Sound, Casting and Ensemble.
“Sinners” leads the Critics’ Choice Award nominations with 17 nominations, followed closely by “One Battle After Another” with 14 nominations.
In the television category, Netflix’s “Adolescence” emerged as the frontrunner with six nominations, including best limited series. Season 2 of the streaming giant’s other series, the comedy “Nobody Wants This,” narrowly secured five nominations.
The Critics’ Choice Awards, hosted by Chelsea Handler, honor the best in film, television and streaming. The ceremony will be held on January 4, 2026 at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California.
