The Popcorn List
The Popcorn List began in 2024 as a way to highlight exceptional and highly acclaimed independent films that deserve further recognition and distribution. You can find more information about this organization here.
We are thrilled to include four of these specially curated films at the 2026 Phoenix Film Festival. Be sure to add them to your screening schedule!
Remaining Native
Run Time: 90 minutes
Screening Time(s):
Monday, April 13 at 6:55pm
Tuesday, April 14 at 12:10pm
Directed by: Paige Bethmann
Synopsis: Remaining Native is a coming-of-age documentary told from the perspective of Kutoven (Ku) Stevens, a 17-year-old Native American runner, struggling to navigate his dream of becoming a collegiate athlete as the memory of his great-grandfather’s escape from an Indian boarding school begins to connect past, present, and future.
The Fisherman
Run Time: 110 minutes
Screening Time(s):
Friday, April 10 at 11:45am
Saturday, April 11 at 5:50pm
Directed by: Zoey Martinson
Cast: Ricky Adelayitar, Endurance Dedzo, William Lamptey, Kiki-Romi, Adwoa Akoto, Dulo Harris
Synopsis: The Fisherman is a heartwarming comedy about Atta Oko, a retired traditional fisherman from Ghana. His life takes a whimsical turn when he is forced into retirement and partnered with a sarcastic talking fish, leading him on an adventure to Accra. Joined by his three quirky "Associates," they pursue their dream of owning a boat. Filled with laughter, magic, and the vibrant culture of Ghana, The Fisherman is a delightful tale of family, dreams, and the enduring spirit of a true fisherman.
Adult Children
Run Time: 100 minutes
Screening Time(s):
Friday, April 10 at 4:20pm
Saturday, April 11 at 9:10am
Directed by: Rich Newey
Cast: Betsy Brandt, Aya Cash, Ella Rubin, Thomas Sadoski, Mimi Rogers
Synopsis: Morgan is a sheltered 17-year-old, struggling to define who she is in order to write her college entrance essay. When a crisis provides her the rare opportunity to spend time with her significantly older half-siblings, she hopes they’ll be able to shed some light on what it means to be an adult, only to be disappointed when she discovers they’re all faking it.
Trash Baby
Run Time: 95 minutes
Screening Time(s):
Saturday, April 11 at 8:10pm
Sunday, April 12 at 9:25am
Directed by: Jacy Mairs
Cast: Esther Harrison, Chloe Kramer, Eddie Wollrabe
Synopsis: Stevie is stuck at home for yet another sweltering summer in Pine Park. She soon crosses paths with wild not-so-child, Edie, and finds herself grappling with the natural desire to grow up and the reality of what we lose when we do.
