DOC NYC 2026 Announces Festival Lineup

The 17th annual DOC NYC, a prominent documentary film festival, has revealed its full lineup for 2026, featuring 116 films. The festival is scheduled to take place in Manhattan from November 11 to November 19, with an extended online component running through November 29. This year's opening night film is "The Hummingbird Paints Fragrant Songs," directed by Èlia Gasull Balada and Matteo Norzi. This documentary centers on the remarkable journey of 75-year-old Indigenous artist Sara Flores, who hails from the Peruvian Amazon and is making a significant impact on the global contemporary art scene. The film promises to offer an intimate look at her life and artistic evolution.

Among the diverse slate of films selected for DOC NYC 2026 is "Union Town," a documentary exploring the complexities of labor and community. The festival's programming aims to showcase a wide range of compelling narratives and perspectives from filmmakers worldwide. This year's selection includes films that delve into social issues, personal stories, historical events, and cultural phenomena, reflecting the breadth and depth of the documentary form. The inclusion of 116 films signifies a robust offering for attendees, both in-person and online, providing ample opportunities for discovery and engagement with impactful storytelling.

The festival's commitment to showcasing emerging and established voices in documentary filmmaking is evident in its curated selection. DOC NYC has established itself as a crucial platform for documentaries, often serving as a launchpad for films that go on to gain wider recognition and critical acclaim. The extended online run allows a broader audience to access these films, overcoming geographical limitations and making the festival's content more accessible. The organizers have emphasized the importance of diverse representation within the lineup, highlighting stories from underrepresented communities and perspectives.

DOC NYC 2026 will continue its tradition of presenting films that spark conversation and foster a deeper understanding of the world. The festival's venue in Manhattan provides a central hub for filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts to connect and celebrate the art of documentary. The blend of in-person screenings and an online platform ensures a comprehensive festival experience, catering to different viewing preferences and accessibility needs. The selection process for the 116 films involved rigorous evaluation to identify works that are not only artistically significant but also relevant to contemporary discourse.