The Palm Springs International Film Festival will kick off its 37th annual edition at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, January 2, 2026, with the opening night screening of Calle Malaga, the Spanish-language debut from director Maryam Touzani, at the Richards Center for the Arts at Palm Springs High School.
“170 films from 72 countries and territories.”
Starring Carmen Maura, Calle Malaga follows an aging woman living in Tangier who is “fighting to keep her home—and her sense of self,” marking a significant moment for Touzani as she makes her Spanish-language feature debut. Touzani is scheduled to attend the opening night screening, joined by Festival Chairman Nachhattar Singh Chandi, Artistic Director Lili Rodriguez, Palm Springs Mayor Naomi Soto, and Reid D. Milanovich, Chairman of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
Running January 2–12, 2026, the Palm Springs International Film Festival will present 170 films from 72 countries and territories, including 53 premieres—comprised of 3 World, 6 International, 10 North American, 12 U.S., and 22 California premieres. The lineup also features 44 International Feature Film Oscar® submissions, underscoring the festival’s role as a key stop on the awards-season circuit. The City of Palm Springs returns as the festival’s title sponsor.
