Indie Film Release Guide: February 20th

A look at the latest indie film debuts, including Oscar-nominated shorts and a new Elvis Presley documentary.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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This weekend sees the release of several indie films, including "How to Make a Killing," "Redux Redux," and "Midwinter Break." There are also screenings of the Oscar-nominated short films in the animated, live-action, and documentary categories. The only major studio release is "Psycho Killer" from 20th Century Studios.

Why it matters

Indie films often showcase unique perspectives and stories that may not get the same level of mainstream attention as big-budget blockbusters. This guide provides an overview of the latest indie offerings, allowing film fans to discover new and diverse cinematic experiences.

The details

The indie films debuting this weekend cover a range of genres, from comedy and drama to horror and fantasy. "How to Make a Killing" is loosely based on the classic film "Kind Hearts and Coronets," while "Redux Redux" is the third installment in a series directed by the McManus brothers. "The Dreadful" features "Game of Thrones" stars Sophie Turner and Kit Harington, and "This is Not a Test" is based on a YA horror novel. The Oscar-nominated short films span animated, live-action, and documentary categories, offering a diverse array of storytelling.

  • The Oscar-nominated short films are screening in theaters this weekend.
  • "Psycho Killer" from 20th Century Studios is the only major studio release this weekend.

The players

John Patton Ford

Writer and director of "How to Make a Killing."

Kevin McManus and Matthew McManus

Directors of "Redux Redux," the third film in their series.

Baz Luhrmann

Director of the Elvis Presley documentary, which was a first runner-up for the Documentary People's Choice Award at TIFF 2025.

Polly Findlay

Director of "Midwinter Break," her feature film directorial debut.

Natasha Kermani

Director of "The Dreadful," who previously directed a segment for "V/H/S/85."

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What they’re saying

“Legendary NASA robotics engineer and best-selling science fiction author, Gentry Lee, has spent a lifetime seeking an answer to the ultimate cosmic question: Are we alone in the universe? At age 82 he has come to a revelatory conclusion.”

— Robert Stone, Writer and director of "Starman"

What’s next

The Oscar-nominated short films will continue to expand to more theaters in the coming weeks, allowing more audiences to experience the diverse range of cinematic storytelling.

The takeaway

This weekend's indie film releases showcase the breadth and creativity of the independent film scene, offering audiences a chance to discover unique perspectives and stories that may not be found in mainstream cinema.