Programmers' Choice

Cookie Queens

Wed, July 8, 2026 at 7:00 pm

Utah Film Center 375 W 400 N (west entrance)

Featuring a Q&A moderated by Film Center Executive Director, Mariah Mellus, with Producer Jen Sims, via zoom and Executive Producer, Heather Kahlert, in-person.

FILM +

Featuring a Q&A moderated by Film Center Executive Director, Mariah Mellus, with Producer Jen Sims, via zoom and Executive Producer, Heather Kahlert, in-person.

Directed by Alysa Nahmias

Runtime: 91 MIN

Year: 2026

Country: United States

Language: English

This event is at capacity; there will be a wait list at the door.

Cookie Queens is a coming-of-age story about the joys, pressures, and pain points woven into one of America’s most cherished rituals: Girl Scout Cookie season. Captivating, candid, and full of heart, the film follows four girls ages 5-12 as they navigate the annual whirlwind of selling, striving, and succeeding. For these Girl Scouts, selling cookies isn’t just about Thin Mints and sisterhood – it’s a crash course in commercialism. Behind the smiles lie real pressure: long hours, ambitious goals, and weighty expectations. With humor, warmth, and a keen eye for small moments revealing big truths, Cookie Queens shows how growing up is shaped by tensions between community and capitalism.

This film was supported by Utah Film Center’s Fiscal Sponsorship Program. Fiscal Sponsorship has supported over 450 projects.

Official Selection

2026 Sundance Film Festival, 2026 Full Frame Documentary Film Festival, 2026 San Francisco International Film Festival

Awards

Festival Favorite Audience Award-2026 Sundance Film FestivalAudience Award Winner-2026 SXSW Film Festival

ADA accommodations are available. If you have additional needs, please visit our Accessibility page to connect with an ADA coordinator.