Sundance 2026 Short Film Lineup Reveals True Crime Obsession and Curry Documentary

The Sundance Film Festival has announced its short film selections for 2026. The festival revealed 54 short films set to screen next month. The lineup includes a film about an accused killer’s strange fame and a documentary co-directed by NBA star Stephen Curry.This news follows last week’s feature film and episodic announcements. The shorts will be presented in programs by Ketel One Vodka. The festival begins on January 22 in Utah.

Notable Films Explore Cultural Fascination and Historical Reflection

One standout film is titled Luigi. It comes from director Liza Mandelup. The film explores the public obsession with accused murderer Luigi Mangione.The official description says strangers turned Mangione into a cultural sensation. He became a canvas for public rage and desire. The film screens in the nonfiction category.Another major selection is The Baddest Speechwriter of All. It is co-directed by Stephen Curry and Oscar winner Ben Proudfoot. The film features Dr. Clarence B. Jones, Martin Luther King Jr.’s former lawyer.Jones reflects on the personal cost of making history. He offers an insider’s view of the Civil Rights Movement. This project marks Curry’s continued engagement with documentary filmmaking.

Program Highlights Global Stories and Festival Accessibility

The shorts program is notably diverse. Senior programmer Heidi Zwicker praised the inventive filmmaking. She said the global lineup runs the gamut of genres and themes.Another documentary, Still Standing, investigates the aftermath of Los Angeles wildfires. It focuses on Altadena residents facing impossible decisions after their homes were contaminated with toxic ash. This film highlights urgent environmental and social issues.Many selected shorts will be available for online viewing. The public online screening window runs from January 29 to February 1. This hybrid model continues Sundance’s effort to broaden access.

NFL Playoff Race Jolted as Patrick Mahomes Tears ACL in Crushing Chiefs Loss

The 2026 Sundance short film lineup underscores the format’s power for bold storytelling. From true crime to civil rights history, these concise works promise to make a significant impact. The festival continues to be a crucial launchpad for innovative cinematic voices.

Info at your fingertips

What is the most talked-about short film at Sundance 2026?

The documentary *Luigi* is generating early buzz. It examines the public’s strange fascination with accused killer Luigi Mangione. The film explores how strangers project their emotions onto figures in the news.

Which celebrity co-directed a film for this year’s festival?

NBA superstar Stephen Curry co-directed a short documentary. He worked with filmmaker Ben Proudfoot on *The Baddest Speechwriter of All*. The film features Dr. Clarence B. Jones, who worked with Martin Luther King Jr.

Can I watch the Sundance short films online?

Yes, many shorts will be available for online viewing. The digital festival runs from January 29 to February 1. You will need to purchase a pass or ticket for online access.

How many short films were selected this year?

The Sundance Institute selected 54 short films for the 2026 festival. They are divided into categories like U.S. Fiction, International Fiction, Animation, and Nonfiction.

What is a notable documentary about a recent disaster?

The film *Still Standing* covers the aftermath of the Eaton Fire in Los Angeles. It focuses on the community of Altadena. Residents grapple with whether to return to homes contaminated by toxic ash.