The Sundance festival starts with an eye on Los Angeles

PARK CITY, Utah — With a day in advance because the Oscar nominations are announced Thursday morning, the heads of the Sundance Institute and the Sundance Film Festival shared at the Filmmakers Lodge what they expect from the next week and a half, in which more than 150 titles selected from more than 16,000 applications including feature filmsshorts, documentaries and episodic films.

The reception also brought together part of the press that will cover the most important independent film festival in the world in an event in which the difficult situation that many members of history are experiencing in Los Angeles due to the fires was remembered.

The evening included speeches by Amanda Kelso, interim executive director of the Sundance Institute, Eugene Hernandez, director of the Sundance Film Festival; Kim Yutani, festival programming director; and John Nein, Senior Programmer and Director of Strategic Initiatives.

Los Angeles on everyone’s mind

Kelso began his speech with emotional words about the recent challenges faced in Southern California, acknowledging the “incalculable loss” experienced by many, including members of the Sundance community.

“This situation reminds us how fragile everything is. The amazing thing is how we can come together now. This is almost a healing moment for us,” Kelso said, emphasizing the importance of community and connection.

Before each screening of the festival, a QR code will be displayed on the screen that those present can scan to access information on how to help those affected by the fires in Los Angeles.

Kelso also reiterated the festival’s dedication to showcasing underrepresented voices.

“Sundance is a festival of discovery,” he said.

No headquarters defined yet for 2027

Eugene Hernández highlighted the unifying spirit of the festival, describing this year’s program as an opportunity to “discover global stories” that entertain, provoke and inspire. On the first day of the festival, this Thursday, January 23, 15 titles will be premiered.

“This year’s films will generate conversations”said Hernández, underscoring the festival’s role in bringing audiences together to experience transformative narratives.

Hernández also commented that the festival has not yet decided whether it will move to another city starting in 2027. The organization is exploring the possibility of changing locations, with Boulder, Colorado and Cincinnati, Ohio in the running alongside Park City itself. Hernández assured that the decision will be announced at the end of this winter.

Emerging talents at Sundance 2025

Kim Yutani highlighted the notable talent featured in this year’s selection, singling out filmmakers whose creativity and vision promise to leave a lasting impact. He encouraged attendees to pay attention to rising stars such as James Sweeney (“Twinless”), Katarina Zhu (“Bunnylovr”), Eva Victor (“Sorry, Baby”), Pasqual Gutierrez (“Serious People”) and Grace Glowicki (“ “Dead Lover”).

“These are incredibly talented people. We want them to know their names now and to keep track of them,” Yutani said.

global stories

John Nein highlighted the festival’s international offering, which reflects Sundance’s legacy of discovery and visibility. Films like Emily Blischfeldt’s “twisted reinterpretation of Cinderella” and Nadia Fall’s “Brides” demonstrate the festival’s commitment to amplifying diverse voices from around the world.

Nein also presented powerful documentaries that address global issues, including “How to Build a Library,” “Mr. Nobody Against Putin” and “Cutting Through Rocks.” He mentioned the return of established filmmakers such as Vladimir de Fontenay (“Sukkwan Island”) and Oscar winner Mstyslav Chernov (“2000 Meters to Andrivka”), whose works add depth to this year’s program.

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