Olivia Wilde's 'The Invite' Set to Receive Vanguard Award at Palm Springs Film Festival

The Palm Springs International Film Awards announced on Wednesday that Olivia Wilde's The Invite will receive the Vanguard Award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival.

The Vanguard Award is a group honor. According to the organization, it distinguishes "a film's cast and director in recognition of their collective work on an exceptional film project." Wilde, who directed the film and also acts in it, is confirmed to attend and accept the award. She will be joined by fellow cast members Seth Rogen, Penélope Cruz and Edward Norton, who are also confirmed.

The Film Awards ceremony is scheduled for Jan. 7, 2027, at the Palm Springs Convention Center. The festival itself runs from Jan. 7 to Jan. 18.

Festival chairman Nachhattar Singh Chandi praised the film and its performers in announcing the honor. "With The Invite, Olivia Wilde has made a film that is both comedic and deeply human," he said. He noted that in addition to directing, Wilde stars alongside "three of the most compelling actors working today: Seth Rogen, Penélope Cruz and Edward Norton."

Chandi added that each of the actors "brings something irreplaceable to this story," and that together they created a work that "has stayed with audiences long after the credits roll." He said the festival is thrilled to honor the team with this year's Vanguard Award.

The Invite premiered at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year and has since generated awards season buzz, including four Gotham Award nominations. The screenplay was written by Rashida Jones and Will McCormack. The story follows two couples at a dinner party that turns into an unpredictable evening, exposing messy relationships and desires.

The Vanguard Award has a notable list of past recipients. Best picture Oscar winners Green Book and The Shape of Water have been honored, as have best picture nominees Belfast, Emilia Pérez, Hamnet, Killers of the Flower Moon, La La Land, Little Miss Sunshine, The Fablemans and The Trial of the Chicago 7.