Montclair Film Fest: Star Power Meets Indie Gems

The 2026 Montclair Film Festival is set to captivate audiences from October 16-25, presenting a rich cinematic experience in New Jersey. The event will feature a dynamic lineup of international premieres, anticipated awards season contenders, insightful documentaries, and groundbreaking independent films.

Opening night on October 16 will feature Martin McDonagh's "Wild Horse Nine" at the Wellmont Theater, with Tony Gilroy's "Behemoth!" closing the festival on October 25 at MKA Upper School. Key centerpiece selections include Ava DuVernay's documentary "14th," Simon Stone's drama "Elsinore," and Brad Bird's animated feature "Ray Gunn."

Attendees can expect numerous appearances from acclaimed filmmakers and actors. Jesse Eisenberg will join Paul Giamatti and Julianne Moore for a discussion on "The Debut," moderated by Stephen Colbert. Edward Burns and Tim Blake Nelson will also be present for screenings of their films, alongside John Turturro and Susie Essman.

The festival will honor excellence in non-fiction with the David Carr Award for Truth in Non-Fiction Filmmaking, presented to Ben Klein and Rachel Maddow for "Kill. Bury. Print." The event also includes juried competitions for documentary, fiction, and emerging independent filmmakers, alongside short film categories.

Programming extends to panels discussing filmmaking pathways, the New Jersey film industry, and the relationship between box office success and awards recognition. Tickets for the festival will be available for purchase starting September 28 for members and October 1 for the general public.