The Sundance Institute has unveiled the line-up for the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, announcing 90 feature films and seven episodic projects from 28 countries. Among the selections is Lady, the debut feature film written and directed by Olive Nwosu—and the only Nigerian film chosen for this year’s programme.
Produced by Alex Polunin, Lady will have its world premiere in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition category in Park City and will also be available online for audiences nationwide.
Set in Lagos, the film follows a fiercely independent young cab driver whose encounter with a group of sex workers draws her into their sisterhood. The relationship exposes her to both danger and joy, setting her on a path of profound transformation. The cast includes Jessica Gabriel’s Ujah, Amanda Oruh, Tinuade Jemiseye, Binta Ayo Mogaji, Seun Kuti, and Bucci Franklin.
The selection of Lady continues Nigeria’s growing presence at Sundance. In 2023, CJ Obasi’s acclaimed Mami Wata premiered at the festival in the same category and went on to become Nigeria’s Oscar submission, marking a significant milestone for Nigerian storytelling on the global stage.
Alongside Lady, two other African titles will screen at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival: the Kenyan film Ki Kuya Land and the South African film Trouble Maker. Their inclusion brings the total to three African entries, joining a bold slate of new voices and established filmmakers, a reflection of Sundance’s commitment to showcasing distinctive global stories.
The 2026 Sundance Film Festival runs from January 22 to February 1 across Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah, with an online programme available from January 29 to February 1. This year’s slate includes 94 world premieres, with 40 percent of feature directors making their debut, including projects such as Bedford Park, Ha-Chan, Shake Your Body, Zi, The Moment, The Invite, Wicker, The Gallerist, and Soul Patrol.
