Will Sundance lose its unique charm? Will it become just another SXSW?

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Allow me to share some thoughts that are steeped in fond memories and an earnest wish for the enduring prosperity of the Sundance Film Festival as it transitions to its new home in Boulder, Colorado in 2027.

In this way, I express not only my nostalgia for past experiences but also my heartfelt hope that this iconic event continues to thrive in its upcoming location.

My preferred film festival is Sundance, which marks the beginning of my year for me. Each visit to Salt Lake City and the drive into Park City, taking in the breathtaking Wasatch Mountains, remains as captivating as ever. Over the past years, I’ve been fortunate enough to attend this event, and it’s safe to say that I consider myself lucky. However, it wasn’t until recently when I learned that next year will be its last run in Park City, that I truly understood how fortunate I’d been.

It seemed that whispers from the residents hinted at how a ski town with around 8,000 inhabitants, Park City, became inundated by Hollywood and movie industry figures during its film festival. However, what set this festival apart was the unique allure of Park City, which couldn’t be found anywhere else. It exuded warmth and offered stunning mountain vistas that left one spellbound. Although the altitude sometimes made breathing difficult, everyone who visited recognized they were part of an extraordinary experience. The festival in this charming mountain town fostered close connections among filmmakers, critics, and audiences, creating an atmosphere conducive to independent cinema’s growth. This ambiance played a crucial role in elevating Sundance as a leading showcase for independent films.

This year, I attended the festival where Quentin Tarantino revealed his upcoming 10th film in a room with approximately 30 people at Firewood, located on Main Street’s peak. Similarly intimate was Bill Murray’s heartfelt discussion, as well as all the talks hosted by NPR’s Elvis Mitchell at his Elvis Lounge, which were quite memorable.

In my opinion, it’s hard to imagine that any private event space in Boulder, even including the University of Colorado campus, would be identical to Sundance as we know it. Change is not something I shy away from; on the contrary, I’m excited about it! The SXSW festival in Austin, TX, has shown me that transformations can lead to more possibilities. Bringing Sundance to Boulder might provide more chances for filmmakers in a new area, more screens for showings and events, and hopefully more reasonably priced housing (since Park City is quite expensive!). The thriving arts community, local backing, and $34 million in tax credits over ten years could significantly contribute to the festival’s longevity.

According to the Denver Gazette, Colorado Film Commissioner Donald Zuckerman clarified a common misconception: “People would often say, ‘Oh, they don’t have enough movie theaters,’ but in reality, we actually do have quite a number of them.

At SXSW, various activities are scattered across Austin. You can quickly and affordably navigate from one location to another by renting a scooter, making it an enjoyable way to explore the city. In contrast, Sundance was unique; most of the top events were located on Main Street, and traversing that hilly avenue was a tradition at the festival, adding to its allure. This year, amid snowfall, I serendipitously encountered Niecy Nash exiting another event at the fest.

The other day, I happened to meet the delightful Niecy Nash on Main Street during Sundance. It’s experiences like these that truly make Sundance unique and endearing. Oh, how I’ll look forward to returning to Park City for Sundance 2025!

— Veronica E Bruno (@VBrunoStories) April 6, 2025

Being situated with all essentials in a central location allowed for easy access to numerous activities, as most events were concentrated on Main Street. The large lounges, like Audible and the fabled Chase Lounge, are likely to relocate within Boulder. In Park City, they were conveniently close to each other, making it delightful to move between them.

For many of us, it had become routine to drop by Chase for a quick meal, attend a discussion or panel, then move on to Audible for more panels and cocktail hour. At one of the discussions at Audible was Jon Hamm, while Chase hosted several sessions focusing on the premiering films. Additionally, Chase gave away a unique festival souvenir – a custom-made cowboy hat, limited to 40 recipients per day. This event was unforgettable, and the hat now holds a special place in my wardrobe (with great reverence).

Audible Lounge is another instance of a venue that thrived particularly well in Park City. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting the Audible Lounge during SXSW and the Tribeca Film Festival, but the one at Sundance was my personal favorite, featuring an outdoor s’mores bar and igloos.

It’s likely that Boulder will make a strong effort to welcome Sundance with open arms by extending the red carpet treatment. As Park City’s festival space became too cramped, Boulder might offer improved transportation and housing solutions. The buses circulating around PC were beneficial, but it would have been even more inclusive to establish convenient shuttle services between Park City and Salt Lake City. Here’s to hoping that Boulder takes steps in that direction, enhancing the overall festival experience for everyone.

Amanda Kelso, CEO of Sundance Institute, noted that Boulder is not just one thing but rather a place that encompasses various aspects. It’s known for its artistic flair, technological innovation, mountainous terrain, and educational environment. Essentially, she emphasized, it’s simply a town with diverse charms.

In a statement, Sundance noted that the city’s blend of art, tech, music, cuisine, business, and learning provides distinctive and captivating possibilities for upcoming versions of the Festival, offering fresh and engaging programs.

We have one more chance left to relish the enchanting mountain scenery of Park City before saying goodbye. I wish Boulder the best as they work to reinvent Sundance, attracting new audiences who will be captivated by its charm and mystery. For now, I’ll look forward to indulging in a steaming hot chocolate on a terrace in Park City.

This coming year offers us one final opportunity to bask in the magical beauty of Park City’s mountainside. Let me express my hope that Boulder succeeds in reimagining Sundance, enchanting fresh admirers with its allure and aura of mystery. Meanwhile, I eagerly anticipate sipping on hot chocolate while lounging on a terrace in Park City.

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2025-04-07 19:15