Newport Beach Film Festival Will Host 2026 Screenings
The annual event returns this October with a diverse lineup of international feature films and short productions.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Film — General
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The Newport Beach Film Festival will feature over 100 feature films and 250 shorts from 21 countries when it begins on October 15, 2026. This year's selection includes the biopic Ink and the drama Paper Tiger.
Why it matters
The festival highlights independent cinema and international storytelling, offering residents and visitors a broad range of cultural perspectives. It also serves as a significant cultural pillar in Orange County before upcoming changes to the area's local theater landscape.
The festival lineup spans entries from 21 different countries, showcasing a total of 100 feature films and 250 shorts.
The players
Jack O'Connell
He is an English actor who appears in the biopic Ink featured in this year's festival lineup.
Adam Driver
He is a prominent American actor who stars in the film Paper Tiger.
Scarlett Johansson
She is an acclaimed American actress who performs in the film Paper Tiger.
Guy Pearce
He is an Australian actor known for his diverse roles and appears in the biopic Ink.
The details
The program features high-profile projects including the biopic Ink, starring Jack O'Connell and Guy Pearce, and Paper Tiger, which features Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson. Additionally, the festival will host the West Coast premiere of Jimmy and the North American premiere of the Iranian film A Bit of Light.
Timeline
The Newport Beach Film Festival begins on October 15, 2026.
The event concludes on October 22, 2026.
Regal Edwards Big Newport is expected to close by June 2027.
Industry Dynamics
The festival continues to operate as the Regal Edwards Big Newport theater faces its planned closure by June 2027 for condominium redevelopment. This shift highlights the changing landscape for large-scale cinema venues as development priorities evolve in the city.
Tickets for the festival are currently available for purchase by the public. Attendees can prepare for the event by monitoring future announcements regarding the specific opening and closing night films.
The takeaway
The festival provides a major opportunity for audiences to view international films that may have limited release windows. Residents should consider planning their attendance early as the event is hosted during a transitional period for local movie venues.
Further reading
For more information on local cinema events, visit the Film — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Los Angeles Times.
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