Must-See Films at Sundance 2014

Written by Matthew McGuire

Photo by Leah Peasley

The time has once again come for independent filmmakers and one of the most sophisticated audiences in world to unite in Park City, Utah. Thousands of international attendees will be taking over the growing resort town from January 16-26. Over the past two decades the event has expanded from Park City to providing venues in Salt Lake City to screen films during the festival.

Be on the lookout for the following breakthrough films to leave a impression on the film mecca within the Rocky Mountains. “Life Itself” will be a highlight for the Doc Premiers category. A high definition release of “Hoop Dreams” are two projects by Steve James that have been building buzz worldwide. Executive producers for “Life Itself” include: Martin Scorsese, Steven Zaillian, Michael W. Ferro Jr, Gordon Quinn, Justine Nagan, Kat White, Mark Mitten, CNN Films: Vinnie Malhotra, Amy Entelis.

Dawn, a film directed by Rose McGowan is looking to lead the pack for U.S.A Shorts Competition with a runtime of 17 minutes. Rose and company is premiering the film in New York and at Sundance. She is making a beautiful transition from acting to directing in her latest project.

Dawn by Rose McGowan

Additional front runners for the festival this year include: American Ham: Nick Offerman. This documentary will provide solid comic relief to the two week event. Focus Features will be releasing “The Signal” this year in the Midnight film category.

The Signal by William Eubank

This year marks their thirtieth year in operation, and our first time covering the event. Established directors, actors, producers and cinemaphotographers are scheduled to review film on one of the largest stages in the world. There is 15 categories that the films have opportunities to pick up awards in their selected fields. In addition to the awards, there will also be live art, music, exhibits, private parties, panels, open discussions with in-depth insight, and many more interactive junctures across Utah.

“Storytellers broaden our minds: engage, provoke, inspire, and ultimately, connect us.” — Robert Redford, President and Founder

The coverage we provide is an independent reflection of the films being released at Sundance. Individuals put up their own resources to provide unique voices in cinema. Corporate outlets tend to create swill merchants. Our goal is to provide an independent voice to media, as the Sundance Film Festival has done for film.

Tech savvy electronic news junkies can stay up to date with the festival via our Flipboard/Flipbook.