It’s Almost Time for Movie Magic
The 41st Santa Barbara International Film Festival
Arrives February 4
By Indy Staff | January 29, 2026
Cinephiles rejoice! The 41st edition of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) arrives next week for 11 days and nights, including 46 world film premieres and 80 U.S. premieres from 50 countries, along with a brand-new headquarters — the SBIFF McHurley Film Center at 916 State Street — as well as a star-studded lineup of tributes to big-screen superstars, Oscar-nominated auteurs, seminars on the nuts and bolts of filmmaking, and free daily films. Read on for our first pick of films to watch, including the scoop on opening night, and a peek behind the scenes with SBIFF poster artist Baret Boisson as well as the tribute to Adam Sandler on February 5. We’ll have even more for you as SBIFF progresses February 4-14. See sbiff.org for the complete schedule and check back frequently for updates, as more things tend to be added through the festival. See you at the movies!
Artist Baret Boisson’s Brush with Film and Fame
Talking Art, Freedom, and Inspiration with
the Creator of the 2026 SBIFF Poster
Happy Gilmore Grows Up: Adam Sandler in the Tribute Spotlight
Sandler, a Comedian with a Serious-Actor Side,
Gets His Close-Up with SBIFF Tribute Night
To India with Love, and Hurdles
SBIFF 2026 Kicks Off with the U.S. Premiere of
A Mosquito in the Ear
A First Look at SBIFF Films of Note
A Small Selection of Recommended Films at SBIFF Represents the Program’s Built-in Diversity of Offerings
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