10 Standout Indie Movies to Watch for This Year
The Atlantic
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
This year’s Sundance Film Festival marked a transitional moment as it bid farewell to its longtime home in Park City, Utah, before relocating to Boulder, Colorado, in 2027. While the festival lacked the usual buzz of past years, it still showcased a selection of standout indie films that left a lasting impression. Among these was *Josephine*, a poignant drama about an 8-year-old girl coping with trauma after witnessing a violent assault. Directed by Beth de Araújo, the film explores themes of childhood innocence and parental struggle, offering a raw yet sensitive portrayal of resilience.
Another highlight was *Once Upon a Time in Harlem*, a documentary that revisits a historic gathering of Black luminaries at Duke Ellington’s home in 1972. The film captures unvarnished conversations and achievements of figures like Eubie Blake and Regina Anderson, creating a vivid snapshot of the Harlem Renaissance legacy. Meanwhile, *The Invite* turned the spotlight on marital dysfunction with its darkly comedic take on infidelity and social pretense. Starring Seth Rogen and Olivia Wilde, the film uses a dinner party as a lens to examine societal norms and human vulnerability.
These films not only entertain but also challenge audiences to reflect on deeper cultural and political issues. *Josephine* raises questions about protection versus innocence, while *Once Upon a Time in Harlem* celebrates Black creativity and history. Similarly, *The Invite* critiques societal expectations and the pressures of modern relationships. Together, these works highlight the enduring power of indie cinema to explore human experiences with depth and nuance.
For readers interested in politics and culture, these films offer valuable insights into social dynamics and identity. They remind us that art can be both a mirror and a catalyst for change, reflecting our complexities while sparking meaningful dialogue. As Sundance evolves, its ability to champion thought-provoking stories remains a vital part of the indie film landscape.
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Originally published on The Atlantic on 2/14/2026