The Sundance Film Festival will honor its founder, Robert Redford, at its 2026 event, which marks the last one to be held in Park City, Utah. Following Redford's passing in September at the age of 89, his. Legacy and mission for independent cinema have taken on renewed significance. Festival organizers have unveiled plans to celebrate his profound career and impact with a series of special screenings and tributes.
Special Screenings and Classics
The festival plans to screen Redford’s first truly independent film, the 1969 sports drama “Downhill Racer. ” On top of that, a series of legacy screenings will feature restored Sundance gems from past festivals. These include beloved classics such as "Little Miss Sunshine" and "House Party," as well as other notable films like "Saw," "Mysterious Skin," and "Humpday," showcasing the diverse spirit of independent filmmaking.
Anniversary Celebrations and Attendance
The program also includes milestone anniversary screenings to commemorate significant works. Barbara Kopple’s acclaimed documentary “American Dream” will celebrate its 35th anniversary, while “Half Nelson” and “Little Miss Sunshine” will both mark their 20th anniversaries. Festival organizers anticipate that many of the original filmmakers involved in these projects will attend these special events, offering unique insights.
Quotes and Enduring Vision
Festival director Eugene Hernandez emphasized carrying forward Redford's foundational mission that "everyone has a story, while " Programmer John Nein highlighted the crucial role of film preservation and repertory cinema in keeping independent stories alive for contemporary audiences. Redford's death has imbued the preparations for this year's festival with a deep sense of poignancy, making the tribute even more meaningful.
Festival Details and Future Plans
The 2026 festival is scheduled to run from January 22 through February 1. Tickets will go on sale Wednesday at noon Eastern, with both online and in-person options available. While planning is already underway for the festival’s new home in Boulder, Colorado, starting in 2027, programmers are currently focused on finalizing the slate of world premieres for January, which will be revealed in December.
