Kevin Costner's acclaimed film, Dances With Wolves, is set to debut its new restored director's cut at the Locarno Film Festival on August 7, 2026. This nearly four-hour extended edition includes over half an hour of previously unseen footage and will be screened at the festival's outdoor venue, Piazza Grande.
Dances With Wolves: A Cinematic Milestone
Originally released in 1990, Dances With Wolves tells the story of an American Civil War soldier who forms a bond with a group of Lakota Indians. The film received critical acclaim, earning Kevin Costner the Best Director award at the 1991 Oscars along with six additional Academy Awards.
The restoration was carried out by Cinegrell, a Zurich-based laboratory, in collaboration with the Locarno Film Festival through its Locarno Heritage project. The involvement of K5 International, the film's international sales agent, also played a significant role in this project.
Details of the Restored Director's Cut
The new version of Dances With Wolves will feature:
- 4K restoration of the original film
- Extended edition running nearly four hours
- More than 30 minutes of unseen footage
This restoration aims to bring a fresh perspective to the beloved classic, allowing audiences to experience the film in a way that was not possible upon its original release.
Locarno Film Festival Highlights
The Locarno Film Festival is renowned for showcasing a diverse lineup of films. Chief Giona A. Nazzaro has emphasized the festival's commitment to curated diversity, which is reflected in this year's selections. The premiere of Dances With Wolves is expected to draw significant attention, further solidifying the festival's reputation as a key player in the global film landscape.
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