Critics Choice Awards Presenters Announced, Poppy Jasper International Film Festival Unveils Lineup – Film News in Brief

The Poppy Jasper International Film Festival has unveiled its 2026 feature lineup as well as its commemorative festival artwork designed by Brazilian creative Leandro Senna for its 20th anniversary. Dedicated to uplifting independent filmmakers and expanding global cinematic storytelling, the festival will take place April 8 through 15 across Morgan Hill, San Martin, Gilroy, Hollister and San Juan Bautista, California. 

“It is an honor to collaborate with the Poppy Jasper International Film Festival on such an important year,” said Senna in a statement. “Celebrating 20 years is a powerful achievement and a reflection of the dedication and passion that live in these communities. I am proud to contribute to a festival that supports filmmakers, strengthens local culture and keeps the art of storytelling alive.”

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“What Comes Next,” directed by Alex Caulfield, will headline the narrative lineup, joining a program that features Honey Lauren’s “Mistake,” Emanuela Galliussi and Dean Ronald’s “Zoe” and Daniel J. Clark’s “American Comic.” Additional highlights include Jon Salmon’s “The Mother, the Menacer and Me,” Lilian T. Mehrel’s “Honeyjoon,” Mario Garza’s “Censurada,” Lane Michael Stanley’s “T” and Hardeep Giani’s “Eugene O’Neill’s The First Man.” 

The documentary lineup will include Kristin Tièche’s “The Invisible Mammal,” Carrie Coaplen’s “Halcyon Daze,”  Marlene “Mo” Morris’ “From Here / From There (De Aquí / De Allá),” Linda Freund’s “The Window on Death Row,”  Andrew Davies Gans’ “Voices: The Danny Gans Story,” Ravit Markus’ “Nina the Athlete” and Ari Ali’s “Broken Dolls and Ben Between Africa.” 

“Reaching our 20th anniversary is both humbling and exhilarating,” said Festival Director Mattie Scariot in a statement. “This year’s program reflects the heart of what PJIFF has championed for two decades —bold voices, inclusive storytelling and communities coming together through film. Our 2026 lineup honors where we’ve been while embracing a vibrant, boundary-pushing future.”

Internationally respected film professional Ron Fogel will serve as a distinguished juror at PJIFF. On April 13, PJIFF will host its annual Mexico y Tú Day, presenting the PJIFF Icon Award to Rick Najera and Grammy-nominated Eugene Rodriguez. Playwright and filmmaker Luis Valdez will be the keynote speaker.

Monday, December 22

Noah Schnapp, Quinta Brunson, Marcello Hernández, Colman Domingo and Regina Hall are among the presenters set to appear at the 31st annual Critics Choice Awards.

Additional presenters include Arden Cho, Ali Larter, Alicia Silverstone, Allison Janney, Bradley Whitford, Billy Bob Thornton, Ava DuVernay, Diego Luna, EJAE, Hannah Einbinder, Jeff Goldblum, Jessica Williams, Justin Hartley, Justin Sylvester, Kaley Cuoco, Keltie Knight, McKenna Grace, Michelle Randolph, Owen Cooper, Rhea Seehorn, Sebastian Maniscalco and William H. Macy.

As previously announced, this year’s ceremony will introduce five new categories: variety series, stunt design, sound, casting and ensemble.

“Sinners” leads the Critics Choice Awards film contenders with 17 nominations, followed closely by “One Battle After Another,” which earned 14 nods.

On the television side, Netflix’s “Adolescence” emerged as the leading contender with six nominations, including best limited series. Another series from the streaming giant, the sophomore season of the comedy “Nobody Wants This,” was close behind, securing five nominations.

Hosted by Chelsea Handler, the Critics Choice Awards honor excellence across film, television and streaming. The ceremony will be held Jan. 4, 2026, at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, CA.