Sundance Bids Adieu

Ah, Sundance! The name alone sends shivers down the spines of indie film fans everywhere. It’s where dreams are birthed, where creativity collides with the snowy slopes of Park City, and this year? It’s throwing a goodbye bash as it prepares to pack up and scoot over to Boulder, Colorado. That’s right, folks, this is the last hurrah in the land of powdery snow, where for the last 45 years, independent filmmakers have come to strut their stuff.

John Nein Gets Nostalgic

Meet John Nein, the grand poobah of programming at the Sundance Institute and the man who’s been at the helm for decades. As he gears up for the 43rd festival, he can’t help but reflect on all the memories made in this winter wonderland. After all, it’s not just the venue changing; it’s an era closing, especially with the sad passing of Robert Redford, the festival’s iconic co-founder. John recalls his first experience as a wide-eyed film lover caught in a snowstorm about 30 years ago, and let me tell you, he’s got stories!

The Snowy Welcome

Imagine it: you’re landing in Utah, and snow is falling like confetti at a wild party. John can’t help but chuckle at the memories; he stepped into Sundance back in 1996 and realized he had been in the wrong crowd all along. He was used to the glitzy Hollywood scene, but Sundance was like finding the secret clubhouse of indie flick lovers. He quickly learned that just because it’s snowing doesn’t mean the spirits are dampened. Nope, you’ve got to brave that cold for the love of film!

From Enthusiast to Executive

Fast forward to 2001, and our buddy John made the leap from fan to festival organizer. It’s a whole new world, and he had to learn the ropes of curating a film festival as someone who once stood in line like everybody else. This was not just about slapping together any random flick; it was about crafting a lineup that told a story, reflected the times, and showcased the future of cinema. And let me tell you, that’s not as easy as it sounds!

Treasure Trove of Memories

What stands out to John the most about Park City? It’s gotta be the filmmakers. Watching them bask in the glow of audience applause for their first film is like witnessing a parent at their child’s graduation—just pure joy and validation. There’s nothing quite like it! He reminisces about his first year as a programmer, when he stumbled upon a tiny film called Once at the Galway Film Fleadh. This little gem, with its catchy tunes and heartfelt story, turned out to be a major hit. Who knew that first movie love would lead to the Oscars?

Honoring Robert Redford

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: this Sundance is also the first without the legendary Robert Redford. Imagine trying to host a rock concert without the lead singer—yikes! But John has a plan: make this a tribute to Bob’s legacy. Plans were already in place to reflect on the festival’s rich history, but now it’s tinged with a bittersweet note of appreciation for the man who spearheaded this whole shebang.

Memories of a Legend

John fondly recalls the storytelling art of Bob, especially the tales of his early projects like Downhill Racer. That film was not just a flick; it was a manifesto for independence in filmmaking. Redford’s wisdom still inspires the Sundance crew today, as they strive to honor his legacy while carving out a bright future for the festival. It’s like holding the torch of creativity in one hand while looking forward with the other.

Repertory Screenings: The Best of the Best

And speaking of looking forward, this year’s festival includes screenings that’ve stood the test of time, like Little Miss Sunshine—20 years already! John and his team are on a mission to keep these gems alive in the public’s eye, especially those that have been buried under the snow (or legal troubles). It’s not just about celebrating the past; it’s about ensuring that classic films continue to shine for new generations to discover and enjoy!

A Farewell to Park City

As we gear up for one last snowy showdown in Park City from January 22 to February 1, there’s palpable excitement in the air. This isn’t just a festival; it’s a love letter to all the artists, the adventures, and a community that has thrived for decades. It’s a reminder that though they’re moving on, the spirit of Sundance will always live on. Here’s to the magic of cinema, the legacy of Robert Redford, and all the quirky characters who made this festival the powerhouse it is today! Cheers to new adventures ahead!