The Round Top Film Festival may be small but it’s mighty! The is one little film festival you don’t want to miss. Let me tell you why.
Don’t Miss The Best Little Film Festival in Texas
As I stated in my quick review on social media, this is one of the best festivals I’ve experienced in a very long time. The fest is incredibly quaint and down home. It’s the little festival that could. In just its second year, RTFF is already going strong, attracting major talent, including writers, producers, actors and more!
In addition to hosting the friendliest people, the town will easily remind you of Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls. From the town square to the coffee shop, bed and breakfast, dance hall, diner and more, Round Top feels straight out of a movie or TV show.
Oh, and the Festival Institute? It is one of the most beautiful venues I have ever seen. Founded in 1971 by world-renowned concert pianist James Dick, you would think it’s been around since the early 1900s. It’s absolutely stunning – and since it isn’t centuries old, that means it’s state of the art as well as aesthetically pleasing.
But, back to the festival! As a first timer, I not only enjoyed my time at this event, I am already plotting my return next year. Wondering why I loved it so much? Read on for just a few of each day’s highlights.
Highlights from Round Top Film Festival
Thursday:
- The screening of Adult Children, starring Texas native Thomas Sadoski.
- A rocking opening night party that you can learn more about here.
Friday:
- Coffee and a chat with Eric Roberts (brother of Julia Roberts and father of Emma Roberts).
- A panel on the influence of fashion and film that explored how on-screen looks inspire real-world trends, reflect cultural shifts and evolve with new technologies.
- An evening of Texas tributes that recognized acclaimed actors, filmmakers, and creative artists, featuring on-stage conversations with honorees and showcasing clips from some of their most memorable work.
Saturday:
- Shorts that honored legendary ladies of Texas, including Houston grande dame Lynn Wyatt and The Melody Maids, an all-girl teenage singing group from Beaumont that traveled to military bases and hospitals around the world from 1942 to 1972.
- A Rising Star Showcase that put the spotlight on Hollywood’s next generation. Those honored included: Ayden Mayeri, Charlie Rowe, Paulina Chávez, Greg Tarzan Davis and Jacob Lofland.
- Screening of the narrative feature Due West. The film focuses on a small-town woman in need of medical care in West Texas who is forced to break the law. It stars Adrianne Palicki, Henry Thomas, Ciara Bravo, Odette Annable, Austin Nichols and more.
- RTFF ‘54, the awards show after party that celebrated film, fashion, and disco!
Sunday:
- Screenings of Richard Linklater’s film Nouvelle Vague and Honey Joon, starring “Rising Star”
Ayden Mayeri. - A special Texas Throwback screening of The Only Thrill, dedicated to the illustrious Diane Keaton.
- The closing night film Jay Kelly which stars George Clooney, Adam Sandler and “Rising Star” Charlie Rowe.
And these are just the highlights! Trust me, this is one festival you need to be a part of! Tickets for 2026 are not yet on sale, but as soon as they are, you can count on us to spill the tea! Stay tuned…
