Sundance 2025 Kicks Off With Technical Glitches, Questlove and Anxiety About the Future of Indie Film

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Is there anything more quintessentially Sundance than this event?” Eugene Hernandez, the festival director, remarked at the premiere of “Twinless” on the opening night, held at Eccles, Park City’s largest venue. However, the night was not flawless. Just after Hernandez exited the stage, a promotional video for the festival’s nonprofit arm encountered sound issues. This mishap was particularly unfortunate as it occurred when the audio malfunctioned during the clip introducing the festival founder, Robert Redford.

During the five-minute sound test, the house lights went on. The movie was hurriedly replayed, but the issue continued to disturb viewers throughout, eliciting frustrated cries of “Nooooo!” from the tense audience. Fortunately, this didn’t diminish the overall positive reception of the film nor the impressive dual role played by Dylan O’Brien as the film’s twin characters. However, it was marred by excessive chatter from the Sundance tech and ground staff (not the volunteers who remained warm and welcoming in their unique Kenneth Cole down jackets). This created quite a disruptive start to the event. Despite technical difficulties, the “Twinless” team seemed overwhelmed by their big debut.

James Sweeney, the writer, director, and actor of this film, mentioned that while there are numerous references for it, there aren’t many comparisons. He once described it as ‘Ingrid Goes West’ combined with ‘The Cakemaker.’ A moment later, Sweeney admitted she was feeling overpowered by all the references. Herndandez then offered a quick breathing exercise to help her regain composure.

On the bustling opening day, festival attendees seldom had a chance to catch their breath, as over a dozen premieres took place. This whirlwind of events seemed intentionally crafted to demonstrate that the passion for independent cinema is thriving even after almost half a century. There were numerous instances that mirrored the legendary moments that have made Sundance so renowned.

Marlee Matlin’s emotional performance at the full house showing of “Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore” moved many viewers to tears. In the film “Jimpa,” John Lithgow and Olivia Colman portrayed a father and daughter, offering a heartfelt depiction of family life that stood out as an empathetic counterpoint to current societal trends, focusing on the sensitive portrayal of LGBTQ+ experiences. Meanwhile, Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, who debuted the Oscar-winning “Summer of Soul” during Sundance’s digital edition amid the COVID pandemic, received a long-awaited Eccles premiere for his vibrant exploration of Sly and the Family Stone’s enduring legacy titled “Sly Lives!

Across Park City, the atmosphere was filled with excitement, but beneath it all, there was a lingering sense of apprehension regarding the mountain resort. It seemed as though everyone could feel the impending change in the air, as both the festival and the industry it represents are going through a transitional phase. For instance, Sundance is planning to move in 2027, with potential destinations being Cincinnati or Boulder. If it stays in Utah, its operations will be relocated to Salt Lake City, a city better prepared to accommodate the large crowds. During a pre-festival gathering for press on Wednesday, Hernandez was deliberately vague about Sundance’s future location. “I used to be a journalist, and of course, I know there’s at least one specific question burning in your mind that you probably want to ask me, or have asked me, and I’m going to tell you to answer that question,” he said. “The answer is no, not yet.

Today, the indie film industry doesn’t hold the same buzz it once did when Sundance was at its peak influence during the 1990s and early 2000s. The rise of streaming services, many of which purchase Sundance films for significant amounts, has significantly altered how movies are consumed. This shift in viewing habits, exacerbated by COVID-19, has led to a decrease in cinema attendance. As a result, studios have reduced their spending, potentially making it more challenging for Sundance premieres to secure the necessary funding. Additionally, there appear to be fewer industry representatives attending, as well as less activity on Main Street and at local restaurants. Despite this, reservations haven’t become entirely unobtainable.

Audience members continued to be drawn to the uplifting, heartwarming films that make Sundance a go-to spot for film enthusiasts. At the matinee screening of “Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore,” an insightful documentary about the life and career of the Academy Award winner, Matlin appeared to thrive on the enthusiasm from the clapping and cheering. Among those attending were her spouse, Kevin Grandalski, children Sarah, Brandon, Tyler, and Isabelle, as well as her “CODA” co-star Troy Kotsur.

Matlin expressed that it was appropriate to share her story, confident that Stern would convey it sincerely and truthfully,” Matlin said, indicating toward director Shoshannah Stern as they stepped onto the stage following the screening. Matlin further mentioned that she intentionally chose a deaf individual to direct the documentary, recognizing Stern as the ideal candidate for the task.

Stern expressed that she created this film with Marlee in mind, as well as for herself and her younger self who is Deaf, and for every Deaf child. She desires them to have their own means of expressing their emotions and to understand that they are not defined by the world’s perception.

And isn’t there anything more characteristic of Sundance than celebrating rebellion, artistry, and those who challenge conventions, especially at such a festival?

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2025-01-24 08:16