Variety to honor its ’10 Directors to Watch’ during Palm Springs Film Fest
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) - Variety will honor its "10 Directors to Watch" during a brunch event at the Palm Springs International Film Festival on January 3.
According to Variety, this year’s list features a dynamic mix of emerging American and international directors, including artists with films headed to major festivals in 2026, two filmmakers with titles submitted for the Oscar international feature category, and three breakout debuts from Cannes — including Kristen Stewart’s first feature behind the camera, The Chronology of Water.
The 10 Directors to Watch honorees are:
- Akinola Davies Jr. (My Father’s Shadow)
- Beth de Araujo (Josephine)
- Jan-Ole Gerster (Islands)
- Sarah Goher (Happy Birthday)
- Dave Green (Coyote vs. Acme)
- Chandler Levack (Mile End Kicks)
- Harry Lighton (Pillion)
- NB Mager (Run Amok)
- Kristen Stewart (The Chronology of Water)
- Walter Thompson Hernandez (If I Go Will They Miss Me)
Of the announcement, Artistic Director Lili Rodriguez said:
“Discovery is such an important part of what we do at film festivals, and partnering with Variety on 10 Directors to Watch is an especially exciting part of PSIFF. It’s always a thrill to encounter the filmmakers that make the list, which has an incredible track record, and we’re glad to be the stage to celebrate these artists.”
Stay with News Channel 3 for continuing coverage of the Palm Springs Film Festival.
