Sundance 2025: Anxious Excitement and Big Moments

Sundance Film Festival's 2025 kickoff was a mix of excitement and technical hiccups. The opening night premiere of "Twinless" at Park City's Eccles Theater had a rocky start. Sound problems interrupted the screening, but it didn't stop the audience from enjoying the film. Director James Sweeney was overwhelmed by the big moment. Despite the issues, the festival showed its strength with numerous premieres. Marlee Matlin’s documentary "Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore" and Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson’s "Sly Lives! " were highlights. Even body horror films like "The Ugly Stepsister" had passionate responses. The festival's mood was celebratory yet anxious. Sundance is considering a move to cities like Cincinnati or Boulder in 2027. The indie film industry is also facing changes, with streaming services altering movie experiences and reducing cinema attendance. However, audiences still embraced inspiring films like Matlin's documentary. The festival's spirit of embracing rebels and iconoclasts was evident throughout.