Thousands of cinema enthusiasts, Hollywood celebrities, industry executives, and filmmakers from across the globe have gathered in a snow-covered Park City, Utah, for the 40th edition of the Sundance Film Festival.
The prestigious event, renowned as the world’s premier showcase for independent films, commences with a star-studded gala honoring festival veterans such as Kristen Stewart and Christopher Nolan, alongside numerous world premieres.
On the opening day, 19 films, spanning documentaries on Brian Eno, Lollapalooza, Frida Kahlo, Yance Ford’s exploration of policing in America with “Power,” and the mock government experiment “Girls State,” will captivate audiences. Fiction premieres include Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck’s 80s-set “Freaky Tales” and “Thelma,” featuring June Squibb as a Los Angeles grandmother on a mission to reclaim her money after being scammed, co-starring the late Richard Roundtree.
While the Sundance Film Festival has always been a significant sales market for studios and distributors seeking films for both theatrical and streaming releases, the aftermath of dual Hollywood strikes may lead to even more robust sales this year. With around 80% of the 91 features playing lacking distributors, the impact of the strikes on the theatrical release calendar has created opportunities for Sundance films to find a quicker path to theaters.
Jason Blum, a Sundance board member, emphasized the potential positive outcome of the strike, stating that many films that might have struggled could now have a chance. Festival director Eugene Hernandez noted that these films are ready for their audience.
Activities are centered in Park City, with Main Street hosting branded lounges from various sponsors and media partners. In addition to continuous movie screenings, the festival includes talks and panels on topics ranging from the legacy of Sundance to making a first feature. Screenings will also take place in Salt Lake City, and virtual festival passholders can access select films online starting on Jan. 25.
The opening night gala at the DeJoria Center in Kamas, Utah, will pay tribute to Christopher Nolan, Kristen Stewart, Celine Song, and Maite Alberdi. The gala presenters include Robert Downey Jr. and Jesse Eisenberg, celebrating their respective directors.
Kristen Stewart, with two films premiering at Sundance this year, emphasized the festival’s significance in the entertainment ecosystem. The Sundance Film Festival, running through Jan. 28, continues to play a vital role in shaping and showcasing independent cinema.
