By Sym Posey | The Birmingham Times
Selma Cinema Festival has announced its Official Film Selection for the 2026 edition that will feature narrative films and documentaries from established and emerging filmmakers across five categories.
The four-day celebration of film and community will take place March 26–29 in Selma, Alabama, and offer free screenings and events, inviting audiences to gather in a city long recognized as a catalyst for change.
Founded by civil rights leader Jo Ann Bland and produced by Foot Soldiers Park, the festival is rooted in Selma’s enduring legacy. Organizers say the annual event is designed to foster connection, inspire conversation, and honor the city’s pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement.
“This year’s program [features] brotherhood,” said Manuel Roman, co-founder and artistic director of the festival. “Across cultures and continents, the Official Selection explores the ties that bind families, communities, and countries.”
Among the program’s highlights is It Comes in Waves, recipient of the Best Narrative Feature Award at the Sidewalk Film Festival in 2025. The film offers a portrait of a Rwandan family navigating the complexities of rebuilding their lives in Canada, reflecting the festival’s focus on resilience and interconnectedness.
Screenings and events will take place at the historic Walton Theater, Arts Revive, and additional venues throughout the city. By activating spaces in Selma’s downtown district, the festival reinforces its commitment to accessibility, cultural revitalization, and community engagement.
In addition to film screenings, attendees can participate in filmmaker Q&As, panel discussions, and special events crafted to spark meaningful exchanges between artists, audiences, and the Selma community.
Organizers emphasize that all screenings and events remain free to the public, ensuring that the arts remain accessible to residents and visitors alike.
Complimentary tickets and full event details are available at selmacinemafestival.com.
2026 Official Film Selection
Feature Films
- It Comes in Waves (Canada)
• Earth’s Greatest Enemy (USA)
• Sans Pitié (France)
U.S. Short Films
- Pics
• Humanity
• Blume
• BOTS
Alabama Short Films
- 54 Miles to Home
• Pops
• Cottonmouth
• Hyperscaled
Social Justice Short Films
- A City That Cares (USA)
• Sofiane (France)
• Place Under the Sun (Moldova)
• Selma, Beacon of Hope (USA)
International Short Films
- Where’s Wally (France)
• Agatha (Germany)
• Marigold: The Tale of God’s Flower (India)
• Frequency 95.6 (France)
• The Last Supper (Iran)
• TN Sensible (France)
A full list of selected films is available at: selmacinemafestival.com/2026-official-selection
