The 37th Palm Springs International Film Festival opens and closes with Mariam Touzani’s “Málaga Street” and Brian Cox’s “Glenlorsan,” respectively. The full lineup includes 168 films from 72 countries, of which 53 premiered and 44 were submitted to the International Feature Film Oscar.
The 2026 festival opens on January 2nd with Moroccan filmmaker Mariam Touzani’s Spanish-language directorial debut, Calle Malaga. The film follows an elderly woman, played by Carmen Maura, as she fights to protect her home and independence in Tangier, Morocco. Mr. Touzani will also be attending the screening.
The final night will be a performance of “Glenlorsan” on January 11th at Palm Springs High School’s Richards Center for the Arts. The film was directed by and stars Brian Cox, co-starring Alan Cumming, as estranged brothers who reunite at the family whiskey distillery in their Scottish hometown. Mr. Cox is also scheduled to attend the screening.
Other notable films and guests include “King Hamlet” with actor Oscar Isaac and director Elvira Lind, “Kim Novak’s Vertigo” with Kim Novak and director Alexander O. Philippe, and “Kim Novak’s Vertigo” with director Paul Feig “The Housemaid,” starring actress Audrey Zahn, actor Steve Zahn, director Rick Gomez, and actress Mackenzie Ziegler’s “Sea Dance,” and “Elvis, Rocky & Me: The Carol Connors.” Story” features songwriter Carol Connors and others.
Featured programs include Gateway Films, which presents films curated by actress Diane Kruger, critic Leonard Maltin, director Paul Feig, programmer Therese Hayes, and the late actor Udo Kier that inspired a lifetime of cinephiles. On Family Day, Mary Pickford will screen Arco, KPop Demon Hunters and Zootopia 2. After Dark presents strange and suspenseful genre films. Local Spotlight offers locally produced films. and the return of Close Up, screening documentaries focused on the filmmakers in front of and behind the camera.
“The 2026 lineup is a celebration of stories that move us, challenge us, and remind us why we love movies,” said Lili Rodriguez, Artistic Director of the Palm Springs International Film Society. “From family-friendly fun to bold new voices, from international masters to exciting first-time films. From the makers of the film, this year’s selections reflect the breadth of energy in film in the world today. At Palm Springs, the joy comes not just from the movies, but from the conversations and shared moments that bring people together every year. We can’t wait for audiences to feel the glow that only movies can bring.”
Visit the Palm Springs International Film Society website for the full festival lineup, program updates, and pass benefits.
