5 Indie Films to Look Out for in 2026

Brantley Gibson 

2026 is looking like the year of the Blockbuster. Following up his 2024 Oscar Best Picture Winner Oppenheimer, Director Christopher Nolan is coming through in July with his fantasy epic The Odyssey, a feature film shot entirely with IMAX 70mm cameras, something that’s never been done before.

Along with the release of the third Dune film and a new Marvel large-scale event, Avengers: Doomsday, there are plenty of mainstream releases to capture your attention. But between the plethora of original streaming releases and big blockbusters, it is easy for some independent films to get lost in the shuffle.

If big-budget movies aren’t your cup of tea or if you’re looking for something different, here are five indie releases to keep on your radar for 2026. 

Sundance Institute | photo by Lacey Terrell

5. I Want Your Sex 

Director of the cult classic Teen Apocalypse Trilogy, Greg Araki, is back with his first feature film in over a decade.

Channeling the erotic spirit found in most of Araki’s work, this film follows the character of Elliot as he secures a new job working for the iconic artist Erika Tracey. Tracey makes Elliot her sexual muse, but their dynamic leads them into a world of betrayal and murder.  

Elliot is played by Cooper Hoffman, who many may recognize as the noble and upstanding Raymond "Ray" Garraty in last year’s The Long Walk. Alongside him is Olivia Wilde, who plays the highly regarded artist Erika Tracey. 

A theatrical release has yet to be announced, but the film is set to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 23, 2026. 

Trashtown Pictures

4. Fucktoys

Annapurna Sriram’s directorial debut Fucktoys takes place in an alternate universe and tells the story of a young woman who has to raise $1000 to break a curse. 

With what may be the most bizarre description out of all the films on this list, Sriram’s surrealist comedy has been highlighted for its striking commentary and outlandish narrative.

Shot on 16mm film and taking place in “trashtown,” the film’s aesthetic is reminiscent of grindhouse films but with a more contemporary edge. 

Unfortunately, the release date for Fucktoys is unknown, as Sriram has yet to strike a deal with a distributor, though many companies have shown interest. 

When asked about the distribution in a piece for IndieWire, Sriram said, “I would never let a client talk down my rate. Why would I let a distributor?”

A24

3. Pillion 

The feature film directorial debut for Harry Lighton, Pillion follows Colin, a reserved man who enters a submissive relationship with Ray, the leader of a biker gang. 

This erotic drama received a 7-minute standing ovation when it premiered at the Cannes Film Festival last year. The film garnered even more positive reactions following its U.K. release in November. 

The film has been praised for its ability to blend different genres, combining psychological thriller elements with an intimate sense of lightheartedness. 

Pillion will be distributed by A24 and released in the United States on February 6th. 

Neon

2. I love Boosters 

Not many details are known about Sorry to Bother You director Boots Riley’s upcoming film, but if you are familiar with Riley’s other work, then you know that this will be a one-of-a-kind film.

This sci-fi adventure centers on a group of shoplifters, the Velvet Gang, as they target a cutthroat fashion guru.

The star-studded cast features Keke Palmer, Demi Moore, Taylour Paige, and Naomi Ackie, who is riding the momentum of a great 2025 after featuring in Mickey 17 and Sorry, Baby. The cast for this film alone should demand your attention.

I love Boosters is set to be released in the United States by Neon on May 22nd, 2026. 

Cannes Film Festival 

1. My Father’s Shadow 

This semi-autobiographical film tells the journey of a father and his sons as they travel through Lagos, Nigeria, during the 1993 Nigerian election. 

Director Akinola Davies Jr. co-wrote the film with his brother Wale Davies, drawing inspiration from the passing of their father, which occurred when they were both young. 

My Father’s Shadow made history as the first Nigerian film to be chosen for official selection at the Cannes Film Festival and received a special mention in the Caméra d'Or category. The film has been lauded for its moving script and its portrayal of the father-son dynamic. 

Mubi is distributing My Father’s Shadow, and it will be released in the United States on February 6th, 2026.