Austin Film Festival to Honor Noted Filmmakers and Playwright

The 2026 Austin Film Festival is set to celebrate a trio of distinguished artists—filmmakers Brad Bird and Andrew Haigh, and playwright-director Aleshea Harris—for their significant impacts on the cinematic and theatrical landscapes. This year's festival, running from October 29 to November 5, promises a vibrant program of world and Texas premieres, alongside special screenings and insightful discussions with industry luminaries. The recognition of these talents underscores the festival's ongoing dedication to the art of storytelling and its commitment to nurturing both emerging and established voices in film and writing.

The festival's co-founder and executive director, Barbara Morgan, emphasized the event's role in showcasing exceptional storytellers across various career stages. She highlighted the careful selection of films and writers that reflect a distinctive artistic vision and a profound commitment to screenwriting as the core of the creative process. This year's honorees, along with a diverse slate of programmed films and a comprehensive Writers Conference, aim to foster an environment where inspiration and collaboration flourish among seasoned professionals and the next generation of creative talent.

Celebrating Visionaries in Film and Storytelling

The 2026 Austin Film Festival is proud to announce its distinguished honorees: Brad Bird, Andrew Haigh, and Aleshea Harris, who will be recognized for their outstanding contributions to the world of film and writing. The festival, scheduled to take place on October 31st, will spotlight these artists whose innovative work has captivated audiences and pushed creative boundaries. This celebration aligns with the festival's overarching mission to champion storytellers and highlight the craft of screenwriting as the foundational element of cinematic art.

Brad Bird, the visionary director behind beloved animated features such as “The Incredibles” and “Ratatouille,” as well as the action-packed “Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol,” will be presented with the Extraordinary Contribution to Filmmaking Award. This honor will coincide with the world premiere of his eagerly awaited animated film, “Ray Gunn,” featuring the voices of Scarlett Johansson and Sam Rockwell. Andrew Haigh, renowned for his critically acclaimed works including “All of Us Strangers” and “45 Years,” will receive the Writer’s Writer Award. His latest film, “A Long Winter,” starring Fred Hechinger and Caitríona Balfe, will also be screened. Aleshea Harris, a compelling new voice in theater and film, will be honored with the New Voice Award. Following her directorial debut with “Is God Is” and “What to Send Up When It Goes Down,” Harris will also participate in a special panel discussion, sharing insights into adapting her theatrical work for the screen.

Festival Highlights and Community Engagement

Beyond the esteemed awards, the Austin Film Festival will feature a rich program of premieres and a dedicated Writers Conference, reinforcing its role as a vital platform for the film community. The event, running from October 29 to November 5, aims to engage both industry professionals and the public through a diverse array of cinematic experiences and educational opportunities, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art and craft of storytelling.

The festival's comprehensive lineup includes several world premieres, such as “Chopin,” “Omi,” “Rated,” “Sheepwell,” “The Stalemate,” and “Tigermom Academy,” offering audiences a first look at innovative new works. Additionally, Texas premieres like “Behemoth!,” “Bleeding Hearts,” and “I Play Rocky” will bring compelling narratives to local audiences. The Austin Film Festival & Writers Conference, a non-profit entity, is committed to supporting writers and filmmakers by providing essential events, services, and community partnerships. By enhancing public awareness and participation, the festival strives to inspire and connect storytellers, ensuring the continued evolution and success of creative endeavors in the film industry.