Magnolia Film Festival Returns for 29th Year in Starkville

Independent films from Mississippi and around the world take center stage at the annual event.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The 29th annual Magnolia Film Festival, affectionately known as 'The Mag,' is set to take place from February 19-21, 2026, at the UEC Starkville Theater in Starkville, Mississippi. The festival will showcase 32 independent films, including 29 shorts and 3 features, originating from Mississippi and 7 other countries. Founded in 1997, The Mag has become a cornerstone of the independent film community in Mississippi, providing a platform for local and international talent.

Why it matters

The Magnolia Film Festival is a testament to the resilience and passion of the independent film community in Mississippi. By showcasing a diverse range of stories and perspectives, the festival aims to challenge the dominance of mainstream Hollywood films and offer audiences a unique cinematic experience. The festival's survival through the pandemic further underscores the strong community support for independent storytelling.

The details

The festival's lineup features a wide variety of genres, including documentaries, music videos, and even a 'sci-fi western.' Six of the films are Mississippi-made, providing a platform for local talent. One documentary, 'Not Your Negroni,' tells the story of an African American bartender and the creation of a signature drink. Beyond the screenings, The Mag offers workshops and opportunities for filmmakers to interact with the audience, fostering a sense of community and accessibility.

  • The 29th annual Magnolia Film Festival will take place from February 19-21, 2026.
  • The festival has been running annually since 1997.

The players

Thomas Easterling

The board president of the Magnolia Film Festival, who emphasizes the festival's resilience and the community's strong support for independent storytelling.

Chris Misun

The festival director, who highlights the unique advantage of The Mag being a single-screen festival, which encourages a sense of community and allows attendees to experience a broader range of projects.

Marty Lang

A professor at Mississippi State University who will be leading a workshop on February 21 about fundraising for independent films.

Ron Tibbett

The founder of the Magnolia Film Festival, in whose honor the Ron Tibbett Award is given.

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What they’re saying

“Not every movie has to be a superhero movie.”

— Thomas Easterling, Board President (newsy-today.com)

“There's a sense of community that's undeniable.”

— Thomas Easterling, Board President (newsy-today.com)

“The festival's judging process aims to recognize excellence in all aspects of filmmaking.”

— Chris Misun, Festival Director (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The festival will present awards across 13 categories, including Best Cinematography, Best Feature, and the Ron Tibbett Award, honoring the festival's founder.

The takeaway

The Magnolia Film Festival's commitment to showcasing independent films and supporting the local filmmaking community in Mississippi is a testament to the power of grassroots storytelling. By providing a platform for diverse voices and perspectives, the festival continues to enrich the cultural landscape and inspire audiences to explore the world of independent cinema.