What's Happening?
Chloé Zhao, Nia DaCosta, and Geeta Gandbhir will be honored at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival's annual fundraiser, 'Celebrating Sundance Institute: A Tribute to Founder Robert Redford'. Zhao will receive
the Trailblazer Award, DaCosta the Vanguard Award for fiction, and Gandbhir the Vanguard Award for nonfiction. The event, which honors Redford's legacy in supporting independent filmmakers, will also feature notable guests like Amy Redford, Ava DuVernay, and Ethan Hawke. The festival will run from January 22 to February 1, 2026, marking its final year in Park City before moving to Boulder, Colorado.
Why It's Important?
This event underscores the significant impact of independent filmmaking on the industry, celebrating the contributions of filmmakers who push creative boundaries. Honoring Zhao, DaCosta, and Gandbhir highlights the increasing recognition of diverse voices in cinema, reflecting a broader industry shift towards inclusivity. The fundraiser supports the Sundance Institute's mission to nurture independent storytellers, ensuring the continuation of Redford's vision. The festival's relocation to Boulder in 2027 marks a new chapter for Sundance, potentially influencing its future direction and accessibility.
