Variety's 10 Actors to Watch Spotlights Newport Beach Film Festival

Variety has released its prestigious '10 Actors to Watch' list for 2026, celebrating rising stars making major impacts on film and television, including Jaafar Jackson and Inde Navarrette. These honorees will be celebrated at the upcoming 27th Newport Beach Film Festival.

Running from October 15-22, the festival features a robust lineup of over 100 feature films and 250 short films from 21 countries. High-profile screenings include Searchlight Pictures' 'Behemoth!' starring Pedro Pascal, Martin McDonagh's 'Wild Horse Nine,' and international hits like the generational queer drama 'La Bola Negra.'

In addition to narrative features, the festival highlights major documentaries, such as Ron Howard's 'Avedon' and a retrospective on 'Star Trek.' The event serves as a major kickoff for the entertainment industry's awards and festival season.

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Variety's 10 Actors to Watch Spotlights Newport Beach Film Festival

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