Spirit Awards 2026: 'Adolescence,' 'Train Dreams' up for top prizes

The Independent Spirit Awards highlight indie film and TV, reflecting evolving industry trends.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Independent Spirit Awards, held Sunday in Los Angeles, celebrated independent film and television, recognizing productions with budgets under $30 million. This year's event, hosted by Ego Nwodim, highlighted a continued emphasis on unique storytelling, diverse representation, and the power of independent production, even as mainstream Hollywood increasingly absorbs elements of the indie world.

Why it matters

The Spirit Awards serve as a barometer of evolving trends within the entertainment industry, showcasing innovative storytelling, genre-bending projects, and the growing prominence of documentaries and international cinema. The adoption of gender-neutral acting categories also reflects a broader industry shift towards greater inclusivity and representation.

The details

Nominees like 'Peter Hujar's Day,' 'Train Dreams,' and 'Sorry, Baby' demonstrate a preference for films that aren't easily categorized, exploring complex themes often rooted in personal experiences. The success of genre-bending films like 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' proves that audiences are receptive to ambitious projects. The documentary 'The Perfect Neighbor' winning best documentary is indicative of the growing prominence of the genre, fueled by increased accessibility through streaming platforms. Kleber Mendonça Filho's 'The Secret Agent' securing the international feature prize highlights the growing influence of international cinema.

  • The 2026 Spirit Awards were held on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
  • The Independent Spirit Awards have been held annually since 1984.

The players

Ego Nwodim

The host of the 2026 Independent Spirit Awards ceremony.

Geeta Gandbhir

The filmmaker of the documentary 'The Perfect Neighbor,' which won best documentary.

Kleber Mendonça Filho

The director of the international feature film 'The Secret Agent,' which won the international feature prize.

Eva Victor

The director of the film 'Sorry, Baby,' which won the award for best screenplay.

Naomi Ackie

The actor who won the award for best supporting role for their performance in 'Sorry, Baby.'

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Independent Spirit Awards will continue to be an important event for recognizing and celebrating independent filmmaking in the years to come.

The takeaway

The Independent Spirit Awards highlight the evolving trends in the entertainment industry, showcasing innovative storytelling, diverse representation, and the power of independent production. The event's focus on films with budgets under $30 million fosters creativity and resourcefulness, ensuring that truly independent voices are recognized and celebrated.