Top 10 Directors to Watch in 2026, Named by Variety
A diverse lineup of rising filmmakers from the United States and around the world, highlighted by Variety as the key talents to watch in 2026, with festival debuts and Oscar conversations on the horizon.
Variety has released its annual list of 10 Directors to Watch, spotlighting filmmakers who are shaping the future of cinema. The lineup blends American and international voices, with several titles already connected to Oscar conversations or slated to premiere at major festivals in 2026.
The 10 Directors to Watch in 2026
- Akinola Davis — Shadow of My Father. Davis, based in the United States, crafts an intimate, emotionally charged drama that signals strong storytelling and striking visuals.
- Beth de Araújo — Josephine. De Araújo brings a bold, character‑driven approach that festival programmers are tracking for its craft and universality.
- Ian Ole Gerster — Islands. Gerster explores memory and belonging through restrained, thoughtful filmmaking that has already earned attention at regional festivals.
- Sara Gohar — Happy Birthday. Gohar develops a character‑centered story that blends humor and tension, appealing to critics and audiences alike.
- Dave Green — Koyot vs Acme. Green tackles a contemporary clash of humor and danger with a crisp, kinetic style in a fast‑paced narrative.
- Chandler Levak — Mile End Kicks. Levak crafts a coming‑of‑age tale set in a tight urban community, noted for its rhythm and energy.
- Harry Laiton — Saddle. Laiton presents a contemplative piece about choice and consequence, marked by precise dialogue and strong performances.
- Nitzan Mager — Run Amok. Mager pushes genre boundaries with a tense, immersive story that lingers beyond the screen.
- Kristen Stewart — The Chronology of Water. Stewart, known for fearless acting, guides a provocative, human‑centered drama with poetic visuals.
- Walter Thompson-Hernández — If I Go Will They Miss Me. This project blends documentary insight with intimate storytelling and social context.
These directors come from the United States and other countries, and their projects span festival circuits and international awards. The list also nods to filmmakers who already drew attention before later successes at Sundance and Cannes, underscoring Variety's broad view of rising talent.
Expert comment: Variety's annual list highlights a new wave of filmmakers who push boundaries and bring fresh perspectives to world cinema. Their work is already drawing attention from festival programmers and critics, signaling a bright year ahead for 2026.
Short summary
The Variety 10 to Watch list for 2026 spotlights a diverse group of emerging directors from across the globe. Each filmmaker brings a unique voice, with projects ranging from intimate dramas to boundary‑pushing genre work. Expect these titles to appear at major film festivals and perhaps shape future awards conversations.
Key insight: Variety's 2026 lineup showcases a global wave of filmmakers who blend personal storytelling with bold cinematic choices, signaling a dynamic year ahead.