The 43rd Miami Film Festival has revealed its program for April 9-19, 2026, featuring over 160 films including 40 world premieres. The event will open with Daniel Roher's Tuner and close with John Carney's Power Ballad, while honoring actors such as Adam Scott and Bob Odenkirk. Special events include live performances and anniversary screenings.
The Miami Film Festival, organized by Miami Dade College, will present a diverse selection of narratives, documentaries, and shorts from 45 countries during its 43rd edition. Highlights include world premieres like The Hollywood Rabbi directed by Jon Kean and Madwoman’s Game by Zach Zamboni, executive produced by Keanu Reeves. A special presentation features Sofia Coppola’s Marc By Sofia, a portrait of designer Marc Jacobs. Centerpiece films are Steven Soderbergh’s The Christophers and Maude Apatow’s directorial debut Poetic License.
James Woolley, the festival’s executive director, stated, “This year’s lineup showcases an extraordinary range of storytelling that reflects the richness of global cinema and the vibrant creative voices shaping the future of film.” Director of Programming Lauren Cohen added, “With films from 45 countries and our largest-ever Made-in-MIA program, it’s a lineup that feels both truly global and authentically rooted in Miami’s filmmaking community.”
The festival honors several figures with awards tied to screenings. Adam Scott receives the Vanguard Award for his role in Hokum, following acclaim from Severance. Bob Odenkirk earns the Precious Gem Award for Normal, building on his Better Call Saul success. Danielle Brooks gets the Art of Light Award for If I Go Will They Miss Me, noted for her work in The Color Purple and Orange Is The New Black. Lili Reinhart shares the Art of Light Award for the TV series Hal & Harper. Matt Bomer receives a Vanguard Award for Outcome and participates in a podcast recording. Sonia Manzano is awarded the Impact Award for Street Smart: Lessons From a TV Icon, recognizing her Sesame Street contributions.
Competitions include the $10,000 MARIMBAS Award for narrative features, the $10,000 Jordan Ressler First Feature Award, and the $15,000 Made in MIA Award for South Florida-produced films. Special events feature the U.S. premiere of Milly: Queen of Merengue with singer Milly Quezada present, a live Whiplash concert conducted by Justin Hurwitz, and a 25th anniversary screening of The Princess Diaries. A John Waters 80th birthday celebration will also occur at the Arsht Center.
