Utah Governor Spencer Cox has announced plans to create a new, internationally acclaimed film festival after the Sundance Film Festival left the state. This move marks a significant shift for Utah’s independent film scene, allowing it to flourish without the shadow of Sundance’s prestige and fame.
In a statement, Cox emphasized that Utah will continue to support filmmakers and build a world-class film economy, despite the departure of Sundance. He has already begun meeting with partners, stakeholders, and creative voices to create a new festival that honors Utah’s legacy and writes the next chapter in independent filmmaking.
Cox’s efforts come after he tried to keep the Sundance Film Festival in the state by offering millions in incentives. However, his attempts were unsuccessful due to the state’s conservative legislative landscape.
The announcement has sparked excitement among film enthusiasts, who see this as an opportunity for Utah’s independent film scene to thrive in a more welcoming environment. The new festival is expected to promote diverse and inclusive storytelling, which may differ from Sundance’s previous focus.
Source: https://www.avclub.com/utah-sundance-make-its-own-film-festival