The 41st edition of the Sundance Film Festival began on Thursday in Park City, Utah, as the entertainment industry gathers to discover new films and discuss timely topics. This year’s lineup features a mix of drama, comedy, horror, and documentaries, including several films about trans rights.
Timely films include “Free Leonard Peltier,” which premieres just days after former President Joe Biden commutes the sentence of Indigenous activist Leonard Peltier, and “2000 Meters to Andriivka,” a joint production between The Associated Press and Frontline about an attempt to liberate an occupied territory in Ukraine.
Several films tackle trans rights, including “Heightened Scrutiny,” about civil rights lawyer Chase Strangio. This comes after President Donald Trump signed executive orders rolling back protections for transgender people.
However, not all films are serious. There’s drama, comedy, and even satire, such as “Rebuilding” with Josh O’Connor, which follows a couple starting over after a fire, and “Bubble & Squeak,” about a married couple accused of smuggling cabbages into a nation where they’re banned.
For first-time filmmakers, Sundance can be a chance to break through in a big way. Last year’s festival saw the success of films like “Dìdi” and “A Real Pain.” The festival also offers actors a platform to show off their talent outside of awards season glitz.
The 2025 Sundance Film Festival runs from January 23 to February 2, with about 90 features premiering across 11 days. Award-winners will be announced on January 31. Some notable celebrities attending include Jennifer Lopez, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Olivia Colman.
While some films may spark controversy, festival organizers aim to create a supportive environment. The festival has pushed back deadlines for filmmakers affected by the California wildfires and will have a QR code displayed before screenings for information on sharing resources or contributing to relief efforts.
Audiences can access many of the films premiering at Sundance online from January 30 to February 2, with prices starting at $35 for a single film ticket.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/sundance-film-festival-2025-what-to-know-0cd99a9eca36b3add9735512d8669e3b