The new year in New York City is about to ignite with creative energy, as Dances With Films (DWF) returns for its fourth NYC edition, running January 15-18 at Regal Union Square. This bicoastal juggernaut—hailed by MovieMaker Magazine as one of the “25 Coolest Film Festivals” and recognized by Dread Central for its bold genre programming—continues to solidify its reputation as the only true indie film festival with deep roots on both coasts.
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DWF’s 2026 lineup is its most ambitious yet: 157 films, including 20 narrative features, 9 documentaries, 4 midnight features, 21 pilots, 6 family films, and a staggering 97 short films. It’s a singular cinema showcase where fresh voices and untamed visions take center stage, with feature-length narratives, documentaries, and midnight movies making their highly anticipated debuts.
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This year, Dominik Sedlar’s Vindicta opens the festival, setting a fierce tone for what’s to come. The world premiere of Salvatore Sciortino’s Roof (pictured) will bring the festival to a close, bookending a program packed with discovery. Other world premieres include Geoffrey Davin’s Aliens Are Coming!! On Monday!!!, Walter Kim’s Banana Split, Colmcille Donston’s By the Grape of God, Peter Odiorne’s The Cereal Aisle Effect, and many more—each a testament to the unfiltered, risk-taking spirit DWF is known for.
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DWF isn’t just about films—it’s about platforming new forms of storytelling. This year’s lineup features a vibrant slate of television and web series pilots, including the world premieres of Dan Angelucci’s Bigg County Restorations – Pilot, Blake Sherwyn’s Chet Bond: License to Chill, and Lauren Reins’ genre-blending Enneagram in Movement – “The Achiever”. From innovative mockumentaries to dance-meets-psychology explorations, these projects push the boundaries of what indie can mean.
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The festival’s rapid growth in New York, alongside its established L.A. presence, has made DWF the only organization offering “discovery” titles at major film events in both cities. Founders Leslee Scallon and Michael Trent have built a platform that champions new talent—most of the films showcased have yet to be picked up for distribution, making DWF a genuine launchpad for creators ready to take the next step.
“Being at the start of the year for the first time emphasizes fresh starts and kicking off new projects,” say Scallon and Trent. “Dances With Films has always been about discovering new talent and helping them get distribution and representation, furthering their careers. Our New York City fests share the energy and excitement the city is known for, amplifying the thrill of seeing great new work and helping our ever-growing family of filmmakers realize their dreams.”
For artists, audiences, and anyone hungry for bold, original storytelling, Dances With Films: NY is more than a festival—it’s a movement. Want to experience the future of indie film? Find the full lineup, event details, passes, and tickets at danceswithfilms.com.
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