The Sundance Film Festival continues to captivate audiences with its prestigious lineup, as Hollywood stars including Natalie Portman, Seth Rogen, and Jenna Ortega arrived for the highly anticipated world premieres of two major comedy films on Saturday, 24th January 2026.
Olivia Wilde's Directorial Return with "The Invite"
The festival's comedy streak was prominently highlighted by the debut of Olivia Wilde's latest directorial effort, "The Invite," which premiered at the Eccles Theater in Park City, Utah. This film marks Wilde's third venture behind the camera and her first since the notable "Don't Worry Darling." Sundance programmers have praised "The Invite" as a significant return to form for Wilde, drawing favourable comparisons to her acclaimed comedic debut, "Booksmart."
A Star-Studded Cast and Intriguing Plot
Penned by Will McCormack and Rashida Jones, "The Invite" features a compelling narrative centred on a couple, portrayed by Wilde and Seth Rogen, who are teetering on the edge of their marriage. The story unfolds as they invite their upstairs neighbours, played by Penélope Cruz and Edward Norton, for a dinner that escalates into a raw and revealing encounter. Wilde has maintained a busy schedule at Sundance, having also participated in the premiere of Gregg Araki's new film, "I Want Your Sex," the previous evening, where she portrayed an eccentric artist and sexual provocateur.
Cathy Yan's "The Gallerist" with Natalie Portman
Following "The Invite," the festival presented Cathy Yan's "The Gallerist," starring Natalie Portman in the lead role of Polina Polinski, an ambitious gallerist striving to establish her reputation at Art Basel in Miami. Assisted by her dedicated aide, played by Jenna Ortega, Polinski becomes entangled in a bizarre plot involving the sale of a deceased body. The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Zach Galifianakis as an influencer, Da'Vine Joy Randolph as an emerging artist, and notable appearances by Catherine Zeta-Jones, Sterling K. Brown, Daniel Brühl, and Charli xcx, marking her third Sundance film appearance.
Additional Premieres and Festival Highlights
The Eccles Theater also hosted the premiere of "Wicker," featuring Olivia Colman as a sardonic fisherwoman who commissions a basketweaver, portrayed by Alexander Skarsgård, to create a husband for her. Skarsgård additionally co-stars in Charli xcx's film "The Moment," further enriching the festival's diverse offerings. All these films are actively seeking distribution deals during the Sundance Film Festival, which continues through to 1st February 2026, providing a crucial platform for independent cinema to reach wider audiences.
