SXSW audiences will experience the 2026 film festival with a major visual upgrade. Barco, a global leader in laser cinema technology, has partnered with SXSW to bring Laser by Barco projection to two of the festival’s most important screening venues in Austin.
For the first time, screenings at the historic Paramount Theatre and Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar will be presented using Barco’s laser projection system. The technology delivers brighter images, stronger contrast, and sharper clarity, giving audiences a more vivid way to experience some of the festival’s most anticipated premieres.
The partnership will debut with the opening night premiere of I Love Boosters, directed by Boots Riley and starring Keke Palmer, LaKeith Stanfield, Naomi Ackie, and Demi Moore. The film will screen at the Paramount Theatre on March 12, marking the first SXSW screening presented with Laser by Barco at the iconic downtown venue.
Additional titles confirmed to screen in the format include Margo’s Got Money Troubles, Ready or Not 2 Here I Come, and Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice, among other films appearing in the festival lineup.
“SXSW has always been a launchpad for bold voices and new ideas in filmmaking,” said Gerwin Damberg, Executive Vice President of Barco Cinema. “We’re excited to partner with the festival to bring Laser by Barco to these iconic Austin venues, giving filmmakers a powerful canvas to present their work with exceptional brightness, color, and clarity.”
SXSW organizers say the collaboration helps elevate the festival’s presentation for both filmmakers and audiences.
“Our mission has always been to provide a world class stage for the most ambitious stories in cinema,” said SXSW Senior Manager of Film and TV Programming Gabe Van Amburgh. “Bringing Barco’s laser projection to the Paramount and Alamo Drafthouse ensures our filmmakers’ work can be experienced with the level of quality it deserves.”
As SXSW celebrates its 40th year, the partnership highlights a continued focus on the future of cinema presentation while supporting filmmakers premiering their work in Austin.
Paramount Theatre
713 Congress Ave
Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar
1120 S Lamar Blvd
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