Standing Ovations Heat Up Sundance 2026 as Audiences Rise for Wicker, The Invite and Fing!

Standing ovations, long a staple of European film festivals, are becoming increasingly common at Sundance. The 2026 edition in Park City has seen audiences rise to their feet in record numbers, signaling both nostalgia for the festival’s final year in Utah and the sheer excitement of cinema at altitude.

Wicker Sparks Double Ovation

On Saturday afternoon, Olivia Colman’s fantasy drama Wicker received two standing ovations at the Eccles Theater. The first came as the credits rolled, and the second when the cast and filmmakers joined Sundance director of programming Kim Yutani on stage. Alexander Skarsgard’s striking performance as the titular wicker husband left audiences buzzing.

Olivia Wilde’s The Invite Moves Crowds

Immediately following Wicker, Olivia Wilde premiered her dramedy The Invite. Starring Wilde and Seth Rogen, the film drew another ovation, with Wilde visibly moved as she wiped away tears on stage. The film’s sharp dialogue and emotional resonance cemented its place as one of the festival’s standout premieres.

Fing! Delights Morning Audiences

Earlier that day, Australian children’s film Fing! earned a standing ovation during its 9 a.m. screening at the Eccles. The whimsical story captivated audiences, proving that even family-friendly fare can inspire festivalgoers to rise in appreciation.

Other Films Earning Applause

The Channing Tatum and Gemma Chan drama Josephine also received a standing ovation after its Friday premiere, with director Beth de Araújo tearing up at the response. These moments highlight a growing trend at Sundance, where audiences once weighed down by winter gear are increasingly choosing to stand in celebration.

A Growing Sundance Phenomenon

Standing ovations at Sundance are not entirely new. Films like My Old Ass, Jesse Eisenberg’s A Real Pain, and the documentary Will & Harper drew similar reactions in 2024. Directors Darren Aronofsky and Kenneth Lonergan have also recalled their own ovation experiences for Pi and Manchester by the Sea.

More to Come

With the festival only three days in, there are still plenty of opportunities for more films to earn standing ovations. As Sundance 2026 continues, the tradition of audiences rising in appreciation seems destined to become a defining feature of this year’s event.