SBIFF 2026: The Films to Watch

The historic Arlington Theater is soon to be graced once again by the biggest names in Hollywood as the 41st Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) is set to kick off on February 4. Over the course of two weeks, artists working in all aspects of the industry, from directors to costume designers (and of course actors), will be honored through awards, screenings and panels. In preparation for this exciting event, The Forge has compiled a list of must-watch movies that will be recognized at this year’s festival.

First up is Paul Thomas Anderson’s black comedy action thriller One Battle After Another. This two-hour and forty-minute epic boasts a star-studded cast featuring industry veterans Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn and the scene-stealing Benicio Del Toro; all of whom will be honored with the Hammond Cinema Vanguard Award on Feb 9. In addition to this, actress Chase Infiniti is receiving a Virtuoso Award for her portrayal of Willa Ferguson. The story follows an ex-revolutionary with a pesky drug habit, Pat Calhoun (Leonardo DiCaprio), who is tasked with raising his daughter, Willa, alone. All is well and good until a series of Hijinks force Pat to embark on a wild goose chase to find the kidnapped Willa. With the help of karate instructor/undocumented community leader Sergio St. Carlos (Del Toro), Pat scrambles to save his spirited daughter from corrupt colonel Steven J. Lockjaw (Penn), who is intent on destroying any evidence of her existence. This fast-paced thriller is a must-see for movie fans who enjoy constant action and great performances.  

Grossing over 368 million dollars globally, Ryan Coogler’s Sinners quickly became the number one blockbuster of 2025. The film follows twins Smoke and Stack, both of whom are portrayed by Micheal B. Jordan, who is set to receive the Outstanding Performer Award on Feb. 12 for his work in the film. The story begins as the twins finally return to their hometown of Clarksdale, Mississippi, after spending seven years in Chicago following their service in the First World War. Using money stolen from crime syndicates in the Windy City, the boys purchase a sawmill, which they subsequently transform into a juke joint to serve the black community. However, things quickly get out of hand as a group of vampires are lured to the club by the transcendent music emanating from within. To find out what happens next, catch Sinners on HBO, Prime or Hulu.

Offering a unique glimpse into the inner workings of a divorced family’s tenuous dynamic, Sentimental Value stands out with its quiet contemplation of what we expect from our parents versus what we receive. Hollywood veteran Stellan Skarsgård stars as a Norwegian film director who uses his divorce as an excuse to leave his wife and daughters in order to focus on his career. For his performance in the film, Skarsgård will receive the Montecito award on Feb. 11. In addition to this honor, Sentimental Value was nominated for Best Motion Picture-Drama at the 83rd Golden Globes and Best International Feature at the 98th Academy Awards. Overall, the film is a must-see for moviegoers looking for a change of pace from the action-packed franchises that seem to oversaturate today’s entertainment culture.