New/Next Film Festival 2026 returns to Baltimore from October 1 through October 4 at The Charles Theatre. More than 160 films are scheduled across the four-day program, including premieres and Baltimore-connected productions, as Baltimore Chronicle reports. The official New/Next Film Festival announcement confirms six world premieres and five U.S. or North American premieres.
Opening night puts a Baltimore story on screen
The festival opens October 1 with Marnie Ellen Hertzler’s Eternity One. The Baltimore-made documentary follows a Chesapeake Bay island community facing disappearance.
The film also carries another strong local connection. Baltimore dream-pop band Beach House created its original score.
New/Next organizers describe the 2026 edition as a showcase for emerging and established filmmakers. This year’s program includes more than 30 emerging titles and over 100 short films.
Among the main numbers announced by organizers:
- More than 160 films
- 30-plus emerging titles
- 6 world premieres
- 5 U.S. or North American premieres
- More than 100 short films
Those figures make the fourth New/Next one of its broadest programs yet. Screenings will use all five screens at The Charles Theatre.
New/Next Film Festival 2026 schedule highlights
Several events extend the festival beyond regular screenings.
| Date | Highlight |
|---|---|
| October 1 | Eternity One and opening party |
| October 2 | Filmmaker and All Access event |
| October 3 | Dance party with Dan Deacon |
| October 4 | The Projectionist and closing party |
Opening and closing parties are scheduled at Metro Gallery. The October 3 event features Baltimore musician Dan Deacon at Baltimore Improv Group.
These side events reinforce the festival’s connection with Baltimore’s independent arts scene. Some gatherings are limited to filmmakers and All Access passholders.
The Projectionist closes the festival
Sunday’s closing film is Alexandre Rockwell’s The Projectionist. The story follows an older man confronting his past through a forgotten movie theater.
Rockwell is expected in Baltimore for the screening. Cast members Vondie Curtis-Hall, Kasi Lemmons and Karyn Parsons are also scheduled to attend.
Individual screening tickets and All Access passes are already available through the festival. All Access passes include premium screening access and selected special events.
Earlier we wrote that Annapolis Pride Parade 2026 returns October 3 with road closures and festival