The Sundance Film Festival 2026 is set to showcase a remarkable selection of documentaries. This year’s lineup includes seven must-see titles that promise to engage and inform audiences. Each documentary brings its own unique perspective and storytelling style, making them noteworthy additions to the festival.
Seven Must-See Documentaries at Sundance 2026
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The History of Concrete
Directed by John Wilson, this documentary explores the multifaceted nature of concrete. It combines humor and thoughtful analysis to discuss infrastructure, culture, and more. This feature extends Wilson’s distinctive style, echoing the essence of his previous HBO series.
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Jaripeo
Co-directed by Efraín Mojica and Rebecca Zweig, Jaripeo delves into rural rodeos in Penjamillo, Mexico. This personal documentary examines themes of queerness and masculinity, featuring a creative blend of Super 8 footage and grounded vérité scenes.
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Kikuyu Land
Co-directed by Andrew H. Brown and Bea Wangondu, Kikuyu Land offers a critical look at Kenya’s colonial history. This documentary not only investigates indigenous land repatriation but also explores personal family histories intertwined with these events. Its aesthetic captures the beauty of Kenya while addressing pressing social issues.
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Once Upon a Time in Harlem
This documentary features footage from a historic gathering at Duke Ellington’s house, celebrating the Harlem Renaissance. Co-directed by William Greaves and his son David, it highlights the contributions of notable figures from this cultural movement and examines its relevance through archival materials.
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Exploration of Identity
This documentary tackles the complexities of cultural identity through heartfelt personal stories. The film aims to engage viewers in conversations about race and belonging, featuring diverse voices and experiences.
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Environmental Reflections
Focusing on climate change and conservation, this documentary presents urgent environmental issues. Featuring activists and scientists, it underscores the need for immediate action to protect our planet.
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Voices of the Dispossessed
This powerful documentary brings the stories of displaced communities to the forefront. By shedding light on their struggles and resilience, it encourages advocacy for social justice and human rights.
These documentaries, presenting diverse themes and stories, reflect the evolving landscape of documentary filmmaking. Each piece offers a new lens through which audiences can view significant social, cultural, and personal narratives.
As the Sundance Film Festival 2026 approaches, film enthusiasts can look forward to engaging discussions and the opportunity to broaden their understanding of critical contemporary issues through these compelling documentaries.
