Lord and Miller Announced as Guest Directors for AFI Fest 2026

The American Film Institute revealed that acclaimed filmmakers Phil Lord and Chris Miller are set to serve as Guest Artistic Directors at the 2026 AFI Fest. This partnership allows them to curate a selection of films that significantly influenced their upcoming project with Ryan Gosling, titled 'Project Hail Mary.' As part of their role, Lord and Miller will highlight several films that served as inspiration for their work, offering attendees a unique opportunity to explore the cinematic influences behind their creative process. Their involvement promises to enhance the fest's offerings with a fresh perspective derived from their extensive experience in the film industry. An exciting highlight of their participation will include a Q&A session following a screening of the classic sci-fi film '2001: A Space Odyssey.' This iconic piece, helmed by director Stanley Kubrick, has long been regarded as a monumental work in the genre and is expected to spark insightful discussions led by the two influential directors. The collaboration between AFI Fest and Lord and Miller is anticipated to attract a diverse audience, eager to engage with the legendary film scholars about their artistic journey and the classics that have shaped modern cinema. As this year's festival approaches, fans can look forward to a celebration of visual storytelling that honors cinematic history while providing a platform for contemporary voices in the film industry. According to Hollywood Reporter, this initiative showcases AFI Fest's commitment to fostering dialogue around important film narratives while also highlighting the work of innovative filmmakers like Lord and Miller. Their unique experiences and insights into the filmmaking process may inspire both newcomers and seasoned filmmakers alike during this essential cultural event.