---
title: "SXSW Announces New Featured Sessions for Film & TV and Innovation Conferences"
date: 2026-02-10
source: Roastbrief US
source_url: https://roastbrief.us/sxsw-announces-new-featured-sessions-for-the-2026-film-tv-and-innovation-conferences/
tags: [sxsw-2026, innovation, film, ai-agents, keynote, panel]
summary: SXSW reveals major featured sessions including AI impact discussion, Carl Pei on tech's future, Vince Gilligan on Pluribus, Larry David's new HBO series, and Jamie Lee Curtis on reinvention.
---

# SXSW Announces New Featured Sessions for Film & TV and Innovation Conferences

SXSW has unveiled a new wave of Featured Sessions for its 40th edition (March 12–18, 2026), spanning both the Film & TV and Innovation Conferences. With over 600 sessions planned, the lineup includes major names across entertainment and technology.

## Innovation Conference Highlights

- **Carl Pei (Nothing CEO)** — A wide-ranging conversation about where the tech industry is heading in 2026, why consumer tech became "closed and predictable," and the mindset shift needed for the next era.
- **"Real-World Impact of AI: Opportunities, Risks and IP"** — The Hon. Michelle K. Lee (former USPTO Director, now CEO of Obsidian Strategies) explores how AI drives efficiency, augments creativity, and increases revenues — alongside its risks and IP challenges.
- **Ibogaine in America** — Marcus Luttrell, Dr. Gul Dolen, Bryan Hubbard, and former Texas Governor Rick Perry discuss the potential of the African psychedelic for addiction and trauma treatment.

## Film & TV Conference Highlights

- **Vince Gilligan & Rhea Seehorn** on Apple TV's *Pluribus* — the team behind Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul explores their collaborative process.
- **Larry David & Jeff Schaffer** preview their new HBO historical sketch comedy series, created with Higher Ground for America's 250th anniversary.
- **Steve Carell** joins Bill Lawrence and Matt Tarses for HBO's *Rooster*.
- **Jamie Lee Curtis** on pivoting, manifesting, and creating your own opportunities throughout a decorated career.

## New for 2026: Reservations System

SXSW introduces advance reservations for sessions: Platinum badge holders get 3 per day, other badges get 2 per day. Events remain open to walk-ups as well.

## Key Takeaways

- AI's real-world impact on business and IP is a dedicated Innovation session topic
- Strong entertainment slate with Spielberg (previously announced), Gilligan, Larry David, and Jamie Lee Curtis
- Carl Pei bringing the consumer tech disruption narrative to SXSW
- New reservation system signals SXSW's push to improve attendee experience