Al Pacino to Lead Jury for 10th Lee Strasberg Film Festival

The Lee Strasberg Film Festival (LSFF) has unveiled an impressive jury for its milestone 10th edition, led by Academy Award-winning actor Al Pacino. The festival, taking place 13–15 November 2026 at The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute in West Hollywood, will once again celebrate outstanding independent filmmaking and authentic screen performances inspired by the Method acting tradition.

Pacino's appointment carries special significance. A longtime friend and protégé of legendary acting teacher Lee Strasberg, he returns to The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute for the festival's anniversary edition. His relationship with the Strasberg family stretches back decades, making his participation a fitting tribute to the Institute's enduring artistic legacy.

Joining Pacino on the 2026 jury is a distinguished panel of actors and filmmakers representing both established and emerging voices in contemporary cinema. The jury includes Henri Esteve, actor and Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute alumnus; actress, singer-songwriter and producer Hayley Orrantia; award-winning writer, director and actor Wade Allain-Marcus; Korean writer, director and editor Hyejin "Grace" Park; and filmmaker Brittany Alexia Young, whose work has earned recognition through initiatives including the Sundance Ignite Fellowship and major international short film festivals.

Together, the jury will determine this year's winners across categories including Best Short Film, Best Screenplay, and multiple acting awards. In addition, every officially selected filmmaker will receive the Tarkovski Grant, providing approximately US$500 worth of FilmFreeway submission opportunities for a future project. The grant enables filmmakers to continue their festival journey by submitting new work to a growing network of international partner festivals.

Filmmakers wishing to participate in this landmark edition still have time to submit their work. Entries remain open through FilmFreeway until 15 August 2026, with the festival concluding on 15 November at The Marilyn Monroe Theatre, where this year's award winners will be announced.

Founded by The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute, the Lee Strasberg Film Festival is dedicated to showcasing exceptional actors and independent filmmakers who bring truth, authenticity, and imagination to the screen. Over the years, the Institute has trained generations of celebrated performers, including Marilyn Monroe, Scarlett Johansson, John Leguizamo, Angelina Jolie, Alec Baldwin, Rosario Dawson, Lady Gaga, Chris Evans, Laura Dern, and Rachel Brosnahan, while continuing its mission of supporting the next generation of storytellers.

https://www.leestrasbergfilmfestival.com