Austin, Texas, January 15, 2026
The 2026 South by Southwest (SXSW) Film & TV Festival will commemorate its 40th anniversary from March 12 to 18 in Austin, Texas. This year’s festival promises a reimagined experience, with the Conference, Film & TV Festival, and Music Festival running concurrently. Attendees can expect diverse programming, including world premieres of feature films and insightful conference sessions. Highlighted events include the opening night premiere of ‘I Love Boosters’ and the Apple TV series ‘Margo’s Got Money Troubles.’
Austin Set to Celebrate 40 Years of SXSW Film & TV Festival
Join the Excitement as SXSW Unites Film, TV, and Music for a Landmark Festival
Austin, Texas – The 2026 South by Southwest (SXSW) Film & TV Festival will make history as it celebrates its 40th anniversary from March 12 to 18 in Austin, Texas. As the festival adapts to the demands of today’s cultural landscape, this year promises a reimagined experience where the Conference, Film & TV Festival, and Music Festival will run concurrently. This exciting shift highlights the potential for community engagement and civic innovation in using fewer bureaucratic barriers to enhance coordination.
Organizers have worked diligently to create a festival that reflects the advancements in the entertainment industry while ensuring that attendees enjoy a myriad of experiences. This level of resilience and community initiative is commendable, as it showcases the power of collaboration among local businesses and creators to bring world-class events right to Austin.
Opening Night Film: “I Love Boosters”
Kicking off the festival will be the world premiere of the film “I Love Boosters,” directed by Boots Riley. With a captivating plot centered around a group of professional shoplifters targeting a competitive fashion maven, this film promises an engaging start to the festivities. The film features an ensemble cast, including Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, Taylour Paige, and Don Cheadle, among others, showcasing a blend of new talent and seasoned actors that embody the spirit of innovative storytelling.
Opening Night TV Premiere: “Margo’s Got Money Troubles”
The opening night will also feature the premiere of “Margo’s Got Money Troubles,” an Apple TV series produced by David E. Kelley based on Rufi Thorpe’s novel. Starring Elle Fanning as a young mother facing financial challenges, this series will resonate with many viewers and highlights the commitment to diverse narratives in modern television. The series will be available globally on April 15, extending its reach beyond the festival.
Diverse Festival Lineup
The festival’s 2026 lineup is impressive, featuring 58 feature films, 49 of which are world premieres. In addition, attendees can look forward to 52 short films, 20 music videos, nine television projects, and 29 XR projects. Standout titles include “Ready or Not 2: Here I Come,” “Power Ballad,” and “Over Your Dead Body,” which reflect the evolving landscape of cinema and television.
Insightful Conference Sessions
Alongside the Film & TV Festival, the SXSW Conference will provide attendees with the opportunity to engage in sessions covering pertinent topics such as Brand & Marketing, Cities & Climate, Creator Economy, Culture, Startups, Sports & Gaming, Tech & AI, and Workplace dynamics. These discussions aim to foster civic engagement and inspire new ideas to further local advancements.
Event Access and Registration Details
All badgeholders will be invited to the opening parties for Innovation, Film & TV, and Music. Notably, Platinum badges offer access to all parties, providing a comprehensive festival experience. As the early registration phase progresses, attendees are reminded to secure their accommodations promptly. Badge prices are expected to increase on December 5, ensuring that those interested don’t miss out on this celebration of creativity.
About SXSW
Since its inception in 1987, SXSW has cultivated its reputation as a global hotspot for creativity and innovation across music, film, and interactive media. The upcoming festival not only marks a significant milestone but also reinforces Austin’s role as a vibrant center for artistic expression and entrepreneurship.
Conclusion
The 2026 SXSW Film & TV Festival promises to be a historic event in Austin, celebrating artistic innovation and community engagement. As the city gears up for this momentous occasion, it serves as a reminder for residents to support local initiatives and stay involved in the development of Austin’s rich cultural landscape. Mark your calendars for March 12 to 18 and join the festivities that will bring together industry professionals and culture enthusiasts alike.
FAQ
What are the dates for the 2026 SXSW Film & TV Festival?
The festival will take place from March 12 to 18, 2026, in Austin, Texas.
Who is directing the opening night film?
The opening night film, “I Love Boosters,” is directed by Boots Riley.
What is the opening night TV premiere?
The opening night TV premiere is “Margo’s Got Money Troubles,” an Apple TV series produced by David E. Kelley.
How many feature films are included in the 2026 lineup?
The lineup includes 58 feature films, with 49 world premieres.
What conference sessions will be offered during the festival?
The SXSW Conference will offer sessions on topics such as Brand & Marketing, Cities & Climate, Creator Economy, Culture, Startups, Sports & Gaming, Tech & AI, and Workplace.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Festival Dates | March 12–18, 2026 |
| Opening Night Film | “I Love Boosters” directed by Boots Riley |
| Opening Night TV Premiere | “Margo’s Got Money Troubles” produced by David E. Kelley |
| Number of Feature Films | 58 feature films, 49 world premieres |
| Conference Sessions | Topics include Brand & Marketing, Cities & Climate, Creator Economy, Culture, Startups, Sports & Gaming, Tech & AI, and Workplace |
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