Ava DuVernay, Ethan Hawke, Patti LuPone Celebrate Robert Redford at Sundance
On Friday night, the 2026 Sundance Film Festival commenced in Utah, celebrating the influential legacy of its founder, Robert Redford, who passed away in September. This year’s festival marks the final occasion it will be held in Park City, where it has resided for over four decades. Next year, the festival will relocate to Boulder, Colorado. The opening gala focused on the sense of community that Redford cultivated through his work. Attendees reflected on their shared experiences and the profound friendships developed over the years.
A Night with Hollywood Stars
The gala saw numerous film industry luminaries in attendance, including Ava DuVernay, Ethan Hawke, Tessa Thompson, and Woody Harrelson. Guests donned outfits fitting the “upscale mountain chic” dress code. Notably, Hawke wore a suit inspired by Redford’s character in the 1979 film “The Electric Horseman.” This year, Hawke stars alongside Russell Crowe in “The Weight,” a Depression-era crime drama, and he is nominated for an Oscar for his role in “Blue Moon.”
Honoring Robert Redford’s Influence
During the event, Hawke shared that he first attended Sundance in 1991. He returned with his film “Reality Bites” in 1994, and again the following year with “Before Sunrise,” which he co-starred in with Julie Delpy. Highlighting the significant impact of the Sundance Institute, founded by Redford in 1981, Hawke emphasized the need for community and support among filmmakers.
Celebrating Independent Cinema
The Sundance Film Festival has been instrumental in shaping independent cinema. Films like “Hannah and Her Sisters,” “Little Miss Sunshine,” and “Get Out” have garnered critical acclaim there. Renowned filmmakers such as Steven Soderbergh, Quentin Tarantino, and the Coen brothers launched their careers at Sundance. Amy Redford, Robert Redford’s daughter, reminisced about the humble beginnings of the festival, noting the institute’s role as a nurturing space for filmmakers.
Acknowledging Emerging Talents
The gala also recognized filmmakers who have been supported by the Sundance Institute. Ryan Coogler’s film “Sinners” achieved a record 16 Oscar nominations, while Chloé Zhao received eight nominations for her film “Hamnet.” Zhao, honored with the Trailblazer Award, emphasized the importance of community in leadership.
Honors and Performances
Additionally, Ed Harris and Hungarian filmmaker Gyula Gazdag received the inaugural Robert Redford Luminary Award for their contributions to storytelling. Harris spoke of the Sundance Institute as a bastion of artistic freedom. Emerging artists Nia DaCosta and Geeta Gandbhir were presented with Vanguard Awards, recognizing their work in fiction and nonfiction.
The celebration culminated in a surprise performance by Broadway star Patti LuPone, who sang “Forever Young.” Attendees remained reflective and appreciative of the festival’s unique atmosphere, emphasizing the special community that has flourished over the years at Sundance.
