URGENT UPDATE: The Palm Springs International Film Festival is set to kick off its 37th edition, with Maryam Touzani’s highly anticipated film Calle Malaga opening the festival on January 2, 2024. Meanwhile, Brian Cox‘s Glenrothan will serve as the closing film on January 12, 2024. This year’s event promises to showcase an impressive lineup of 168 films from 72 countries, including 53 premieres and 44 films vying for the prestigious Oscar for Best International Feature.
Calle Malaga, starring Carmen Maura, tells the poignant story of an aging Spanish woman in Tangier who battles to preserve her home and identity as her daughter plans to sell. In contrast, Glenrothan features veteran actor Brian Cox alongside Alan Cumming as two estranged brothers who reunite in their picturesque Scottish hometown, grappling with family traditions centered around their whiskey distillery.
The festival is set to draw major talent and filmmakers, including Oscar Isaac and director Elvira Lind with their film King Hamlet. Other notable films include Kim Novak’s Vertigo, The Housemaid directed by Paul Feig, and Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die from Gore Verbinski.
Festival organizers have also announced a new series called Gateway Films to honor films that have ignited a passion for cinema, curated by renowned figures such as Diane Kruger and critic Leonard Maltin. Additionally, the After Dark section will feature thrilling genre films, while the American Indies section will spotlight emerging U.S. filmmakers.
Lili Rodriguez, artistic director of the Palm Springs International Film Society, expressed her excitement:
“Our 2026 lineup is a celebration of the stories that move us, challenge us, and remind us why we love movies.”
She emphasized that this year’s selections reflect the vibrant energy of global cinema.
Hollywood’s elite will gather for the festival’s star-studded Film Awards on January 3, 2024, honoring luminaries such as Ethan Hawke, Michael B. Jordan, and Leonardo DiCaprio.
With its diverse lineup and myriad events, the Palm Springs International Film Festival is poised to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience. As excitement builds, audiences can look forward to a celebration of film that resonates deeply and fosters meaningful conversations.
Stay tuned for further updates and the complete festival lineup, available on the official Palm Springs International Film Society website.